This article guides you on locating deleted files on Android. Most apps, such as Photos, Gmail, and Files, have their own trash folders.

Where Do Deleted Photos Go?

Android doesn’t have one trash app, but it does include numerous apps that contain their form of a trash can. One critical place you may want to undelete files from is your photos app.

Photos App Trash

If you use Google Photos, here’s where to look for deleted videos and photos in that app:

1. Open the Photos app and tap Library at the bottom.

2. Tap Trash.

   The icon in this screenshot says Bin, due to regional differences.

3. Your deleted photos are here. Tap one to restore it, or tap the three-dot menu to empty the Photos app trash.

Gallery App Trash

If you have a Samsung device, you might be using the Gallery app instead of Photos. Here’s how to find the Gallery app’s trash folder:

1. Tap the three-line menu at the bottom of the app.

2. Choose Trash.

3. Listed here are all your deleted items from the Gallery app. Tap Edit, then pick one or more items to see the Restore option at the bottom.

How to Find the File Manager Trash

Most Android phones have a file manager app installed. When you delete downloaded files, like documents, the file manager app holds onto them in its trash folder. Here’s how to find that:

1. Search your device for your file manager. It might be called Files, My Files, or File Manager.

2. Depending on your device, do one of the following:

   • Tap the three-line menu and choose Trash.
   • Scroll down and tap Trash.
   • Go to Categories > Recently deleted.

3. You can empty the trash or restore files out of it. Here’s how it works on different devices:

   • Tap the All items button followed by Delete. Or, to restore a file, select it and tap Restore.
   • Tap the three-line menu and choose Empty. Or, to take a file out of the trash, touch-and-hold it, then press Restore.
   • If you don’t see that option, select Delete all to delete everything, or tap each file to restore it.

Can I Restore Permanently Deleted Files?

Generally, no. Some third-party apps claim they can recover deleted texts and files, but it’s not guaranteed. These methods should not be relied upon for critical files. Only delete files if you’re sure you don’t need them.

Where Is the Trash Can on My Android?

Android doesn’t have a trash can. Unlike a PC or Mac, there’s no single recycle bin where deleted files are stored. Instead, each app can have its own, separate trash can. This often includes file management apps like Dropbox and Google Photos, plus email apps and really anything that involves items you might want to restore.