How To Recover Cell Phone Data After a Crash

Have you ever lost all your phone data after it suddenly crashed? It can feel like you lost everything, including photos, videos, contacts, and more. But don’t worry. There are still ways to recover your data.

To recover cell phone data after a crash, follow these easy steps, including trying the simple methods: checking for backups (iPhone and Android), using data recovery software, trying the SD card method, using a USB-C to HDMI adapter, using ADB (Android Debug Bridge), or getting help from a professional.

If nothing works, phone repair experts might be your last option to get your data back.

Tips To Recover Phone Data After A Crash

Let’s walk through each method to help you recover your files safely and easily.

1. Check for Backups

The first thing to check is whether your phone has a backup saved.

Android:

• Go to your Google account settings. Most Android phones automatically back up your data, including photos, contacts, app data, and settings.
• Open Settings > Google > Backup.

If the backup is on, you can restore it after resetting or replacing your device.

iPhone:

iPhones usually back up data to iCloud or iTunes.

• For iCloud: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
• For iTunes: Connect your phone to the computer and check the last data backup in iTunes.

Restoring backups can recover most of your lost data quickly if they are available.

2. Data Recovery Software

If no backup is available, you can use third-party data recovery tools. These software programs can scan your phone for deleted files and help you recover them.

Some popular ones include:

• Dr.Fone
• iMobie PhoneRescue
• Tenorshare UltData

Install the software on your PC, connect your phone, and follow the steps. These user-friendly tools can recover photos, messages, call logs, and more. Make sure to use trusted software to avoid viruses.

3. SD Card Method

You can recover your files directly if your phone uses an SD card.

• Remove the SD card from the phone.
• Insert it into a card reader connected to your PC.
• Use recovery software like Recuva or EaseUS to scan the SD card.

This method works best for photos, videos, and documents saved on the SD card.

4. USB-C to HDMI Adapter Method

This method helps when your phone’s screen is damaged, but the phone still works.

• Connect a USB-C to HDMI adapter to your phone.
• Plug the other end into a TV or monitor.
• Use a mouse (USB or Bluetooth) to control your phone on the bigger screen.

This way, you can access your files and move them to a cloud account or USB drive.

5. ADB (Android Debug Bridge)

This method is for advanced users who are comfortable using computers and command lines.

• Download the Android SDK platform tools on your computer.
• Enable USB debugging on your phone. (This only works if USB debugging was already enabled before the crash)
• Connect your phone with a USB cable.
• Use ADB commands to pull files from the device.

ADB works well when the phone turns on, but the screen is unresponsive. However, it won't work if USB debugging hasn’t been enabled.

6. Professional Data Recovery

If nothing else works, it’s time to seek expert help. Professional data recovery services have tools to open your phone, repair its hardware, and recover your data safely.

They often work in labs and use advanced technology to retrieve lost files from broken or non-working phones. While this option can be expensive, it offers the highest success rate, especially when the phone is damaged or has internal storage issues.

Some Important Considerations While Recovering Data

Before trying any recovery method, keep these points in mind:

• Do not save new data on the phone. This can overwrite the old files and make recovery harder.
• Data recovery is not always guaranteed. It depends on the extent of the damage and the kind of data you're trying to recover.
• Professional services may cost more but offer better chances of returning your data.

Regular backup is the best way to avoid losing important files in the future.

Conclusion

Losing your phone data after a crash can be stressful, but you have many ways to recover it. First, check for automatic backups on iCloud or Google. If that doesn’t work, try recovery software, check your SD card, or use a USB-C to HDMI adapter. For advanced users, ADB is also a great tool. And if all else fails, a phone repair expert can give you the best chance to get your data back. Always back up your data regularly so you don’t face this problem again.