Recover Deleted Photos on iPhone 16: 3 Easy Methods (With or Without Backup)

Updated at: 09/07/2025

Accidentally deleted precious photos from your new iPhone 16? Don't panic! This article outlines three simple methods to recover those lost memories, whether you have a backup or not. We'll guide you through easy-to-follow steps, from using built-in features to employing reliable third-party apps. Get your deleted photos back quickly and effortlessly – read on!

Methods: Recover from Recently Deleted Album

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Access Recently Deleted Album

    • Open the Photos app.
    • Swipe up to the utility section and tap 'Recently Deleted'.
    • Authenticate with Face ID or passcode.
    Authenticate with Face ID or passcode.
    Access Recently Deleted Album

  2. Select Photos for Recovery

    • Select the photos you want to recover.
    Select the photos you want to recover.
    Select Photos for Recovery

  3. Recover Photos

    • Tap 'Recover' to restore them to your library.
    Tap 'Recover' to restore them to your library.
    Recover Photos

Methods: Recover from iCloud Backup

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Check iCloud Backup Existence

    • Check for a recent iCloud backup made before the photos were deleted.
    • Go to Settings > [your Apple ID] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
    Go to Settings > [your Apple ID] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Go to Settings > [your Apple ID] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
    Check iCloud Backup Existence

  2. Erase iPhone Data

    • Erase all content and settings on your iPhone 16.
    Erase all content and settings on your iPhone 16.
    Erase iPhone Data

  3. Restore from iCloud Backup

    • During the setup process, choose to restore from an iCloud backup.
    • Select the backup that contains your deleted photos.
    Select the backup that contains your deleted photos. Select the backup that contains your deleted photos.
    Restore from iCloud Backup

Tips

  • Restoring from iCloud backup will erase all current data on your iPhone.

Methods: Recover Using Third-Party Software (AppGeek)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Software Installation and Device Connection

    • Download and install AppGeek iPhone Data Recovery software.
    • Connect your iPhone 16 to the computer.
    Connect your iPhone 16 to the computer. Connect your iPhone 16 to the computer.
    Software Installation and Device Connection

  2. Initiate Scan and Photo Selection

    • Choose 'Recover from iOS Device' and click 'Start Scan'.
    • Select 'Camera Roll' or other relevant category.
    • Check 'Show Deleted Only' to filter results.
    • Select the photos you want to recover.
    Select the photos you want to recover. Select the photos you want to recover. Select the photos you want to recover. Select the photos you want to recover.
    Initiate Scan and Photo Selection

  3. Recover and Save Photos

    • Click 'Recover' and choose a save location.
    Click 'Recover' and choose a save location.
    Recover and Save Photos
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overwriting Data

Reason: Taking new photos or downloading large files after deleting photos can overwrite the space where the deleted photos were stored, making recovery harder or impossible.
Solution: Immediately stop using your iPhone after realizing you've deleted photos to prevent data overwriting.

2. Using Unreliable Recovery Software

Reason: Downloading recovery software from untrusted sources can lead to malware infection or ineffective recovery attempts, potentially causing further data loss.
Solution: Only use reputable and well-reviewed recovery software from official app stores or trusted websites.

3. Ignoring iCloud/Backup Options

Reason: Many users don't regularly back up their iPhone data, making recovery from a deletion more difficult or completely impossible if no backup exists.
Solution: Enable iCloud backups or use a computer backup regularly to ensure data protection against accidental deletions.

FAQs