How to Recover Data from a Samsung Galaxy After a Failed Update

A failed update on your Samsung Galaxy can result in unexpected data loss and device malfunctions. This guide outlines several methods to recover your data without resorting to a hard reset.

1. Check Samsung Cloud Backup

Samsung Cloud may have automatically backed up your important data prior to the update failure.

Access Samsung Cloud: Power on your device and open the Settings app.
Navigate to Backup Settings: Go to Accounts and Backup > Samsung Cloud.
Review Available Backups: Look for any recent backups that include your contacts, photos, and other important files.
Restore Data: Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your data from the backup.

2. Check Google Backup

Google may have automatically saved essential data such as contacts, app data, and photos before the update issue occurred.

Open Device Settings: Go to Settings on your Samsung Galaxy.
Access Backup Options: Navigate to Accounts and Backup > Backup and Restore > Google Account.
Verify Backup Status: Check if your Google account shows recent backup information.
Restore from Google: Use the restore option in your device settings or relevant Google apps (e.g., Google Photos) to retrieve your data.

3. Use Samsung Smart Switch

Samsung Smart Switch is a powerful tool that allows you to back up and restore data if your device is operational enough to connect to a computer.

Install Smart Switch: Download and install Samsung Smart Switch on your computer from the official Samsung website.
Connect Your Device: Use a USB cable to connect your Samsung Galaxy to the computer.
Launch the Application: Open Smart Switch and let it detect your device automatically.
Backup Your Data: Follow the on-screen instructions to create a complete backup of your device data on your computer.

4. Use ADB Commands for Data Extraction

If USB debugging was enabled before the update, you can use ADB commands to extract your data directly from the device.

Prepare Your Computer: Ensure that ADB (Android Debug Bridge) is installed on your computer.
Connect Your Device: Plug your Samsung Galaxy into the computer via USB.
Verify Connection: Open a command prompt or terminal window and type adb devices to check that your device is recognized.
Pull Data: Use the command adb pull /sdcard/ <destination_folder> to copy your data from the device to your computer.
Confirm Extraction: Verify that the files have been successfully transferred to your chosen destination.

5. Utilize Third-Party Data Recovery Software

Reputable third-party recovery tools can scan your device for recoverable files even after a failed update.

Select a Recovery Tool: Choose a trusted data recovery software such as Dr.Fone or Tenorshare from their official websites.
Install the Software: Download and install the selected program on your computer.
Connect Your Device: Connect your Samsung Galaxy to the computer using a USB cable.
Run a Scan: Launch the software and allow it to perform a thorough scan of your device for recoverable data.
Preview and Recover: Review the scanned files, select the ones you need, and follow the instructions to recover and save them to your computer.

6. Contact Professional Data Recovery Services

Professional data recovery services can extract data from your device when other methods fail.

Research Providers: Look for reputable data recovery companies experienced in smartphone recovery.
Discuss Your Issue: Contact the provider to explain your situation and get an estimated cost for the service.
Follow Submission Instructions: Adhere to the provider’s guidelines for safely shipping or delivering your device for recovery.
Receive Your Data: Once the service completes the recovery, verify the integrity of the recovered data as provided by the professionals.