01
Open Recently Deleted
In Voice Memos, return to the folder screen using the back button, then open Recently Deleted. Select the recording and tap Recover. Apple keeps deleted recordings there for 30 days by default, but the retention setting can be changed.
The available recovery window depends on the setting used on your device. You can inspect it in Settings → Apps → Voice Memos → Clear Deleted. Changing that setting now does not establish that an older deleted recording is still available.
02
Verify the recovered take
Return to your recordings and play the recovered memo. Check the speaker, opening words and ending, especially if several takes have similar names. Recovering a file is only useful if it is the version you need.
For an interview, compare it with your session notes. Mark which questions or segments are present before restarting editing work.
03
If the recording is not there
Look for copies you previously exported to Files, emailed, uploaded to a project folder or sent to an editor. A collaborator may still have the attachment even if your original is gone.
Do not assume that a missing recording can be recovered. This Recently Deleted procedure does not recover a memo that has already been permanently erased. If no copy is available, plan which material needs to be recorded again.
04
Keep a separate project copy
Once you have the correct recording, save a separate copy before making further edits. Give it a clear session-and-take name and verify that the saved copy plays. Keep a simple checklist of source files so a missing take is noticed before an episode deadline.
Sources
Source and version notes
Apple’s official Voice Memos instructions
Instructions checked September 10, 2026. Menu labels can differ by software version. Workflow suggestions are editorial guidance.
Develop your recording into an episode
Follow a practical workflow from recorded idea to podcast.