Here’s my take on this, recovering files directly from internal storage can be a mixed bag. You generally have two paths to consider, each with its own trade-offs.
One approach is using desktop recovery software. You’d connect your Pixel to a PC and let the software scan for recoverable file fragments. This method is often more powerful and thorough. However, it can be more technically involved, and the most effective tools sometimes require payment or advanced device permissions.
The other option is to use a recovery app directly from the Play Store. This is far more convenient, but there’s a catch: installing and running an app can potentially overwrite the very data you’re trying to recover. It’s a bit of a gamble, but it’s simpler if you need a quick solution.