How to Recover Missing Files on iPad
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Tested on
- iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
- You will need
- Stable internet connection, Apple ID credentials
Step by step
Check your iCloud Drive sync status
Open the Files app and tap the Browse tab at the bottom. Tap the Sidebar button in the top-left corner to reveal the locations menu. If iCloud Drive is greyed out or shows an error, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Drive and ensure the toggle is set to On.
Note: A slow network can cause files to remain invisible while they download.Force a refresh of the file list
In the Files app, navigate to the folder where the files were stored. Place your finger in the middle of the file list and pull down firmly toward the bottom of the screen. Release once the loading spinner completes to force a synchronization with iCloud servers.
Search the Recently Deleted folder
If your files were accidentally deleted, they remain in the system for 30 days. Tap the Browse tab, select the Locations menu, and tap Recently Deleted. If you see your missing files, long-press the file icon and select Recover.
Note: Files purged from Recently Deleted are permanently removed from iCloud.Toggle your location visibility
Tap the ellipsis icon (three dots) in the top-right corner of the Files app sidebar. Select Edit Sidebar. Ensure the toggles for iCloud Drive, On My iPad, and any linked third-party cloud services are enabled.
Perform a forced restart
Clear minor software glitches by restarting the iPad. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Top Button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
Note: This does not delete any of your data.