If you have ever deleted a file on your Android phone and then regretted it, you may have wondered if there is a recycle bin to recover itUnlike Windows or macOS computers, Android devices don't have a unified trash can where all deleted files are stored. However, many apps do include their own trash can, allowing you to recover photos, emails, and other documents deleted within a certain time period.
This article will help you understand where these trash cans are located on Android, how to access them, and what options you have to restore or permanently delete files stored in them. We'll also explore additional solutions to better manage deleted files on your device.
Android does not have a centralized trash can
Unlike desktop systems, Android does not have a universal waste bin where you can find all your deleted files. Instead, each app handles its own deleted files with a independent waste bin, where deleted items are stored for a period of time before being permanently deleted.
Some customization layers from manufacturers such as Samsung o Huawei They have implemented their own trash can in certain applications, but this is not a standard solution on all Android devices.
Where to find the trash in popular Android apps
Although there isn't a general trash can on Android, many apps have their own recycling system. Below, we'll show you where you can find these trash cans in the most used apps:
Trash in Google Photos
In Google Photos, when you delete an image or video, it doesn't disappear immediately, but is moved to the paper bin during 60 days before they are completely deleted. To access the Google Photos trash:
- Open Google Photos on your phone.
- Go to section Library.
- Select Trash.
Trash in Gmail from Android
Deleted emails in Gmail are stored in the trash for a period of time. 30 days before being permanently deleted. To access:
- Open the Gmail app.
- Tap the menu button at the top left.
- Scroll down until you find the folder Trash.
Trash in Google Drive
Google Drive also includes a trash can where deleted files are saved during 30 days. To access:
- Open Google Drive on your mobile.
- Access the side menu.
- Choose Trash.
Trash in Google Keep
If you delete a note in Google Keep, it will be moved to the trash for a period of time. 7 days before being permanently deleted. To access:
- Open Google Keep.
- Access the side menu.
- Choose Trash.
Trash on Samsung and Huawei phones
Some manufacturers have implemented their own trash can within the gallery app for photos and videos. These trash cans typically store files deleted during 30 days. To find them:
- Samsung: Go to the Gallery, open the menu and select Trash.
- Huawei: Enter the Gallery, go to the tab Álbumes and look for the folder Recently deleted.
Google Files: The best option for managing deleted files
Google Files is a file manager that also incorporates a Recycle Bin to manage temporarily deleted files. Although it's not a unified trash can, it allows you to recover certain files that were deleted from within the application itself.
To access the Google Files trash:
- Open the Google Files app.
- Tap the menu icon at the top left.
- Choose Trash.
Other alternatives to recover deleted files
If you can't find a file in any of these recycle bins, you can still try some additional options:
- Recovery via backups: If you have backups enabled in Google Drive or in the services of your mobile manufacturer, you could restore the file from there.
- Third Party Applications: There are apps like dumpster o Recycle Bin that work like a recycle bin for Android.
- Recovery programs: If you have deleted a file and cannot find it in any trash, PC software like DiskDigger can help you get it back.
Recovering deleted files on Android can be a challenge due to the lack of a universal trash can, but if you know where to look, your chances of success increase considerably. Google Photos, Gmail, Drive, and Keep have their own trash cans, as do some mobile brands like Samsung and Huawei.
Google Files offers an additional option for managing deleted files. If you need a more comprehensive solution, you can use third-party apps or backups to restore important files. Share the information so more people know what to do when they accidentally delete files..
