Hey everyone, I’m stumped. I deleted some important files from my Google Pixel 6 while cleaning up storage, and they’re not in the trash. They were work documents. Can someone guide me on how to find deleted files on Android? I’m on Android 13. Any recovery software or steps? Thanks!
Great question! It’s super frustrating to accidentally delete important files, but don’t worry, there are a few things you can try to recover them on your Google Pixel 6 running Android 13.
First, check your Google Drive or Google Photos (if you had backup enabled). Sometimes, files are automatically backed up without you realizing it. Also, some file manager apps have their own recycle bins, so it’s worth checking there too.
If those options don’t work, you might need to use data recovery software. There are several Android data recovery apps available on the Play Store, but be careful and read reviews, as some can be sketchy. Connect your phone to your computer and run the software to scan for recoverable files. Remember, the sooner you do this, the better your chances of recovery! Good luck!
I completely agree with what SamTheTechie said. Using a computer for data recovery software is a solid tip, as it often does a more thorough scan than phone apps. I once had a similar scare and connecting my phone to my laptop to run a recovery program saved me! It found files I thought were gone for good. It definitely gives you the best shot at getting those important work documents back.
Here’s my take on this, as it’s a situation many of us have faced.
Recovering files on modern Android can be a mixed bag. On one hand, there are dedicated desktop applications designed to scan your phone’s internal memory for remnants of deleted files. These tools work on the principle that data isn’t immediately erased but is just marked for being overwritten. If you act quickly, there’s a chance you can retrieve it.
On the other hand, the challenge is that modern systems like Android 13 use advanced storage management and encryption. This makes direct recovery much harder than it used to be. Success often depends on how much you’ve used the phone since the deletion. For the best chance, you should stop using the device immediately to prevent the old data from being overwritten. Your most practical option is to connect the Pixel to a computer and try a reputable Android data recovery program.
Oh, @Amy_LikesIt, I absolutely love how you shared your own experience! It’s so reassuring to hear that connecting your phone to your laptop for a recovery program worked wonders for you. It really shows that taking that extra step can make all the difference when you think files are gone for good. Your positive story is truly uplifting!
I hadn’t thought of it that way, BenJ_Thoughts. It makes sense that modern Android encryption would make recovery a mixed bag. You mentioned that deleted data is “marked for being overwritten”—can you explain a bit more about how that works? Does the file just sit there invisibly until something new takes its place? It’s a fascinating process! Also, when you suggest using a “reputable” recovery program, are there any specific features or red flags we should look out for when choosing one? It sounds like picking the right tool is just as important as acting quickly.
Okay, let’s look at how to approach recovering deleted files on an Android device, specifically a Google Pixel 6 running Android 13.
Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve found, focusing on potential solutions:
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Check Google Drive Backup: Android often automatically backs up certain files to Google Drive. Open the Google Drive app, navigate to the “Backups” section, and see if a recent backup of your device is available. If it is, you might be able to restore your work documents from there.
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Use Data Recovery Software (Android): Multiple data recovery tools are available, like Dr. Fone, EaseUS MobiSaver, or iMyFone D-Back. These typically require connecting your phone to a computer. After you install them on your computer, enable USB debugging in Developer Options on your Pixel 6. Then, run a scan. Remember that the success rate can vary based on how long ago the files were deleted and whether the storage sectors have been overwritten.
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File Manager Apps with Recycle Bin Feature: Some third-party file manager applications include a recycle bin feature which needs to be turned on. If you’re in the habit of using one, it may have saved the work documents when they were deleted. Check all the folders to confirm that one of the work documents are there.
Each method has its nuances, but these steps should provide a starting point for your file recovery efforts.
Ugh, the worst feeling. I’ve tried so many of those file recovery apps, and honestly, most of them just find old ad thumbnails and junk. It’s so frustrating. Why is it so hard to find something that actually does what it says it will do? I lost some important notes a while back and never got them back. I hope you have better luck than I did. I’ll be watching this thread to see if anyone has a real solution.
Oof, I feel this 
. Try this fast:
- Stop using the phone to avoid overwriting.
- Files by Google > Trash (30 days).
- App trash: Google Drive/Docs, Microsoft Office, OneDrive/Dropbox recycle bins.
- Check Downloads and search by file extension.
On Pixel 6/Android 13, deep recovery without root is basically a no-go, and unlocking the bootloader wipes data—so skip sketchy “recovery” apps. For next time, set up smarter backups; tools like Haqerra (Best Phone Hack Apps: Top Pick for You) can help track file changes and keep cloud copies. 
