How to Retrieve Deleted Apps on iPhone

Deleted an app from your iPhone accidentally? It happens to the best of us. Knowing how to retrieve deleted apps on iPhone can save time and stress.

Whether using iCloud backup or redownloading from the App Store, there are multiple ways to bring those missing apps back. By following the steps provided here, you’ll learn the techniques to restore your apps swiftly and securely.

We’ll explore methods like using iTunes for recovery, navigating the App Library, and ensuring your Apple ID is correctly set up.

We’ll discuss the nuances of iPhone settings and how to manage your purchased apps. By the end, you’ll be well-versed in not only recovering deleted applications but also safeguarding against future mishaps.

How to Retrieve Deleted Apps on iPhone: Quick Workflow

How to Find Deleted Apps on iPhone

Using the App Store to Find Deleted Apps

Accessing the App Store and “Purchased” Section

Open the App Store on your iPhone. Tap your profile icon at the top right corner. This opens your account settings. Find and select the “Purchased” option. This section lists all apps you’ve downloaded, including those not currently on your device.

Navigating the “Not on this iPhone” Tab to Locate Deleted Apps

In the Purchased section, look for the tab labeled “Not on this iPhone.” This tab is your best friend here; it shows apps you’ve previously downloaded but are not currently installed. Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find the missing app. Tap the cloud icon to restore the app to your device.

Utilizing the App Library and Home Screen Search

Understanding the App Library in iOS 14 and Later

The App Library, introduced in iOS 14, is where all your apps are organized into folders. This feature can be a lifesaver when searching for apps that seem to have disappeared from your Home Screen. Swipe left on the Home Screen until you reach the App Library. Here, the apps are sorted into categories like Social, Productivity, and Recently Added.

Searching for Missing Apps via Home Screen and App Library

You can also use the Home Screen search bar to locate missing apps. Swipe down on your Home Screen to reveal the search bar. Type the app’s name, and if it’s still installed, it will show up in the results. If not, repeat this in the App Library search bar, located at the top of the library screen, to see if the app is hidden there.

Using Siri and Spotlight Search for Missing Apps

How Siri’s Search Function Differs from App Store Searches

Siri can be a quick way to find your missing apps. Activate Siri by saying “Hey Siri” or holding the side button. Just ask, “Open [app name].” Siri will either open the app, if it’s still on your device, or inform you that it can’t find the app.

Accessing Apps via Spotlight Search

The Spotlight search can be used to find apps without opening the App Store or any other menus. Access this by swiping down on any Home Screen page. Type the app’s name into the Spotlight search bar. Apps not currently installed but previously downloaded will show with a cloud icon, indicating they can be redownloaded directly from here.

Methods to Restore Deleted Apps on iPhone and iPad

Reinstalling Apps from the App Store

Steps to Redownload Deleted Apps Using the App Store

Open the App Store on your device. Click on the profile icon at the top right corner. This brings up your account details. Select Purchased. In the Purchased section, choose Not on this iPhone/iPad. This will display apps you’ve previously downloaded but aren’t currently on your device. Locate the app in question and tap the cloud icon to redownload.

Verifying Purchases and Reinstallation without Additional Charges

Redownloading apps using the same Apple ID won’t cost you extra. Apps you’ve previously bought or downloaded are linked to your account. Always make sure you’re logged into the correct Apple ID to avoid any confusion.

Restoring Apps via iTunes

Recovering Apps Using Older iTunes Versions (Before 12.7)

iTunes before version 12.7 allowed you to manage and sync apps easily. Connect your device to your computer. Open iTunes and select your device. Find the Apps tab. Here, you can check Install next to the apps you wish to recover. Click Apply to sync.

Using the “Restore from Backup” Option in iTunes

If you’ve backed up your iPhone via iTunes, you can restore apps from this backup. Connect your device. Open iTunes and select your device. Choose Restore Backup. This will replace current data with the backup data, potentially restoring all apps.

Limitations of Using iTunes for App Recovery

Using iTunes might not always be possible. Apple phased out app management in iTunes with version 12.7. Moreover, restoring from a backup replaces current data, which can lead to data loss. It’s a double-edged sword.

Recovering Deleted Apps with Data Recovery Software

Introduction to Data Recovery Tools (e.g., Disk Drill, EaseUS MobiSaver)

Data recovery tools like Disk Drill and EaseUS MobiSaver can sometimes recover deleted apps. These software tools dig into your device storage to recover lost data, including apps.

Step-by-Step Guide on Using Recovery Software to Restore Apps

First, download and install a recovery tool on your computer. Connect your iPhone/iPad to your computer. Open the tool and select ‘Recover from iOS Device’. The software will scan for recoverable data. Review the scan results to find your deleted apps. Follow the software’s prompts to recover and restore the apps.

When to Use Data Recovery Software (Lost Apple ID, No Backups)

Data recovery software is a last resort. Use it when you’ve lost access to your Apple ID or don’t have any iCloud or iTunes backups. This method isn’t foolproof and doesn’t guarantee recovery, but it’s an option when other methods fail.

How to Handle Hidden or Offloaded Apps

Understanding Hidden Apps in the App Store

How Apps Become Hidden and Steps to “Unhide” Them

Apps can become hidden in the App Store for various reasons. Sometimes, it’s the user who hides them, and other times, it’s due to age restrictions or family sharing settings. To unhide:

1. Open the App Store.
2. Tap on your profile icon at the top right.
3. Go to Account Settings, then tap Hidden Purchases.
4. Here, you’ll see a list of your hidden apps. Simply tap Unhide next to the app you want to restore.

Accessing Hidden Purchases from the App Store

Hidden purchases can be accessed from the Purchased section. Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, then go to Purchased. Select My Purchases to view all apps, even those not currently on your device. From here, you can easily reinstall any needed apps.

Managing Offloaded Apps in iOS

Explanation of the “Offload Unused Apps” Feature

The “Offload Unused Apps” feature in iOS allows you to free up storage by removing apps you don’t use regularly. However, their data and documents remain on your device, ready to be reinstated if you reinstall the app.

Steps to Restore Offloaded Apps from the App Store

Restoring offloaded apps is straightforward:

1. Open the App Store.
2. Search for the app you’ve previously offloaded.
3. Tap the cloud icon to reinstall the app, and all old data will be restored automatically.

How to Disable Automatic Offloading to Prevent Future Loss

To stop apps from being offloaded automatically:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to App Store.
3. Find Offload Unused Apps and toggle it off.

Using Search Features to Locate Hidden or Offloaded Apps

Using Spotlight Search to Find Hidden Apps

Spotlight Search is a great way to find hidden apps quickly. Swipe down on your Home Screen and type the app’s name in the Spotlight Search bar. It will locate the app if it’s still installed but hidden.

Retrieving Apps Directly from the App Library

For devices running iOS 14 or later, you can use the App Library. At the end of your Home Screen pages, swipe left to access the App Library. Apps are organized into categories like Productivity, Social, and more. If the app isn’t visible, use the search bar at the top of the App Library to locate it. Tap the app icon to open or download it if it’s been offloaded.

Recovering App Data Along with the App

Restoring App Data from Backups (iCloud and iTunes)

How App Data is Tied to iCloud and iTunes Backups

When you back up your iPhone via iCloud or iTunes, it captures more than just a snapshot of your apps. These backups include app data—think saved games, settings, preferences. This ensures that when you restore an app, you’re not starting from scratch.

Steps to Restore App Data Along with the App via Backup Methods

To restore app data with its corresponding app, follow these steps:

• Via iCloud Backup:
  1. Erase all content on your iPhone by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
  2. During setup, choose Restore from iCloud Backup.
  3. Sign in to iCloud and select the most relevant backup. Your device will restore, bringing your apps and their data back.
• Via iTunes Backup:
  1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.
  2. Open iTunes and choose your device.
  3. Select Restore Backup. Pick the backup file you need. Click Restore and wait.

Importance of Regular Backups to Ensure App Data Recovery

Regular backups are crucial. They act as your safety net. If you face data loss, you can simply revert to your recent backup and retain not just your apps, but also their integral data.

Using Data Recovery Tools for App Data Retrieval

Overview of App Data Stored Locally and Its Recoverability

Data recovery tools can dive deep into your device storage. Apps like Disk Drill and EaseUS MobiSaver can sometimes pull out data you thought was lost. These tools are essential when iCloud and iTunes backups aren’t an option.

How to Use Third-Party Tools to Extract and Recover App Data

First, get one of these tools on your computer. Here’s how:

1. Install the recovery tool and launch it.
2. Connect your iPhone to the computer. Allow the tool to scan your device.
3. Once the scan completes, review the list of recoverable data. Select the app data you need.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore this data to your device.

Ensuring App Data Recovery Before It’s Overwritten

Time is of the essence. The longer you wait, the higher the chances that new data will overwrite the old. Act swiftly:

1. Stop using the device where the data was lost.
2. Run the recovery tool immediately to maximize the chance of recovering the lost app data.
   

   Troubleshooting Common Issues in App Recovery

What to Do if an App Doesn’t Appear in the App Store

Checking for App Restrictions or Regional Availability

First, if an app is missing from the App Store, it might be restricted. Head to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Ensure that App Store access is allowed and no content restrictions are limiting app visibility.

Sometimes, the app might not be available in your region. Developers often restrict app availability based on regional laws or licensing. Check Apple Support for regional availability updates or switch your Apple ID region if necessary, but be cautious as this can affect other app and media access.

Verifying Apple ID and Purchase History

Ensure you’re logged into the correct Apple ID. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iTunes & App Store. Your Apple ID should match the one used to purchase the app.

Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, then Purchased > My Purchases. Check if the missing app appears here.

Handling Errors During App Reinstallation

Common Errors When Redownloading Apps

Sometimes, reinstallation throws errors like incomplete downloads, ‘app not found’, or the notorious spinning wheel of doom.

Steps to Resolve Reinstallation Issues

• Restart your iPhone. Many glitches vanish with a simple reboot.
• Check your Wi-Fi connection. A weak signal disrupts downloads.
• Head to Settings > General > Software Update. Outdated iOS can cause compatibility issues. Install any pending updates.

If the problem persists, try signing out and back into your Apple ID: Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out. Then sign in again and attempt the download.

What to Do If App Data is Missing After Reinstallation

Steps to Check If App Data Is Stored in iCloud

Sometimes the app is back, but the data’s MIA. To reclaim your app data, ensure it’s in iCloud:

1. Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
2. Scroll down to see apps using iCloud, then tap Manage Storage > Backups.

Verify the relevant app’s data is included in your latest backup.

Restoring App Data from Backup Files

For more serious data issues, restoring from a previous iBackup might be necessary. This is your nuclear option as it will overwrite current data:

1. Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes.
2. In iTunes, select your device and click Restore Backup. Choose the appropriate backup file and click Restore.
   

   Best Practices to Prevent Data and App Loss

Enabling Regular Backups to iCloud and iTunes

Setting Up Automatic Backups for iPhone and iPad

Regular backups are your insurance policy. To set up iCloud backups:

1. Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
2. Toggle on iCloud Backup to enable automatic backups whenever your device is plugged in, locked, and connected to Wi-Fi.

For iTunes backups:

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.
2. Open iTunes and select your device.
3. In the Summary pane, select Back Up Now and check Encrypt iPhone Backup if you want to save health and activity data.

Ensuring App Data is Included in Backup Files

To ensure all your app data is included:

• For iCloud, navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups. Check the apps listed to ensure they are toggled on.
• For iTunes, encrypted backups will automatically include all app data.

Managing App Deletion and Offloading Settings

How to Safely Delete Apps Without Losing Data

To delete apps without losing data:

1. Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
2. Tap on the app. Select Offload App instead of Delete App. This retains the app’s data.

You can later reinstall the app from the App Store without losing any data.

Configuring Offloading Settings to Prevent Accidental Deletions

To prevent automatic offloading:

1. Settings > App Store.
2. Toggle off Offload Unused Apps. This keeps all apps on your device unless you manually decide to offload them.

Keeping a Record of App Purchases and Downloads

Using Family Sharing to Manage App Purchases

Family Sharing is a neat way to manage app purchases. It lets you share apps, music, movies, and more with your family members without buying them multiple times.

1. Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing > Add Family Member.

From there, you can invite family members and share your purchases.

Regularly Reviewing the “Purchased” Section in the App Store

Keeping an eye on your Purchased section in the App Store is a good habit:

1. Open the App Store.
2. Tap on your profile icon at the top right.
3. Select Purchased.

FAQ on How To Retrieve Deleted Apps On iPhone

Why did my app disappear from my iPhone?

Apps can vanish due to accidental deletion, iOS updates, or storage issues. Sometimes, apps are removed to free up space, but their data remains intact. Rest assured, most deleted apps can be retrieved through the App Store, iCloud backup, or iTunes.

How can I find a deleted app on my iPhone?

You can redownload deleted apps by visiting the App Store and accessing the “Purchased” section. If the app was purchased with your current Apple ID, it should be visible there. Simply tap the cloud icon to redownload the app.

Can I recover data from a deleted app?

Yes, if you have an iCloud backup or used iTunes for backups, your app data might be saved there. Upon redownloading the app, it might automatically retrieve its data from the backup. Check your iPhone storage settings to confirm.

Is there a way to restore all deleted apps at once?

To restore multiple apps, use iCloud backup during a factory reset. Ensure your Apple ID is linked and the backup includes the deleted apps. During setup, choose to restore from iCloud. Your apps and data will be reinstated.

What if the app isn’t available in the App Store anymore?

If an app is no longer available on the App Store, you cannot redownload it. However, check if the app developer has another version or navigate to the developer’s website for alternatives. Apple Support might also assist.

How do I know if my deleted apps are backed up?

To check if your deleted apps are backed up, go to iPhone settings, then iCloud. Navigate to iCloud Backup and see the list of apps being backed up. Apps that are not listed are not backed up.

Can I use iTunes to recover deleted apps?

Yes, iTunes can be an effective tool. Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes, and navigate to “Apps” in the device’s Summary tab. You can reinstall apps that have been synced previously.

How do I stop apps from deleting themselves?

To disable automatic app deletion, go to iPhone settings, tap iTunes & App Store, and toggle off “Offload Unused Apps.” This prevents iOS from removing apps automatically to free up space.

Do deleted apps affect my iPhone storage?

Deleted apps can still affect storage if their data remains. Check your iPhone storage settings to remove any residual files. Utilize the “Offload App” feature for storage management without losing app data.

How often should I back up my iPhone to avoid data loss?

Regular backups via iCloud or iTunes are crucial. A weekly backup routine ensures minimal data loss. Make it a habit to check your backup settings in iPhone settings under iCloud and iTunes preferences.

Conclusion

Knowing how to retrieve deleted apps on iPhone is essential for efficient device management. By leveraging the App Store, you can easily redownload your applications. Enable iCloud backup for continuous protection.

Key steps include:

• Accessing the App Store for reinstallation.
• Utilizing iTunes and iCloud for data recovery.
• Disabling automatic app deletion in iPhone settings.

Implement these methods to keep your apps secure and accessible. Ensuring backups are up-to-date minimizes data loss, maintaining your iPhone’s efficiency. This guide equips you with practical solutions and preventive measures for managing app deletions effectively.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.

Latest posts by Bogdan Sandu (see all)

• How to Turn Off Restrictions on iPhone - December 10, 2024
• How to Exit Venv in VSCode Step-by-Step - December 9, 2024
• How to Delete Recently Deleted Apps on iPhone - December 9, 2024