The Complete Guide to Recovering Deleted iPhone App Store Files (2025)
If you've ever panicked by the App Store disappearing from your iPhone or accidentally deleting an app, it's usually a configuration issue or a simple restore. Because the App Store is a default app, it's not actually deleted; it's likely hidden or restricted.
- The first thing to do when you can't see the App Store
Swipe down from the home screen and type "App Store" into the search bar (Spotlight). If it appears, it's in a hidden folder or in the App Library. Long-press the icon and drag it down to the home screen.
If you still can't see it, scroll all the way to the bottom of the home screen and search for it again in the App Library.
- Check if it is hidden by Screen Time
It is the most common cause.
Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions
→ iTunes and App Store purchases → Change to 'Allow' for app installation
If you still can't see it after setting it up, reboot your iPhone once.
- How to reinstall a deleted app
Launch App Store → Profile icon in the upper right corner
→ Purchase History → My Purchases
A list of all previously installed apps will appear, and clicking the cloud icon will reinstall them.
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- Full restore from iCloud backup
If you want to restore not only the app but also the previous state, use iCloud backup.
Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings
During initial setup, select Restore from iCloud backup → Select the desired backup
※ Please make sure to check before proceeding as data will be lost after backup.
- Restore iTunes/Finder backups (including app data)
This is the most perfect method if you have a backup on your computer.
Connect your iPhone to your computer after resetting it.
Windows: Launch iTunes / Mac: Launch Finder → Select Restore Backup
Game data and app settings are all restored intact.
- How to resolve problems during restoration
• When restoration is slow: Use stable Wi-Fi, check storage space
• When the app cannot be installed: Search for it directly in the App Store and reinstall it.
• Apple ID error: Settings → Sign out of Apple ID and then sign in again
• No app data: Check the app's cloud sync feature.
Key Summary
• The App Store is not deleted. This is mostly due to screen time restrictions.
• Deleted apps can be reinstalled at any time from your App Store purchase history.
• Use iCloud or iTunes/Finder backup to recover data
Once you know this method, you'll never have to worry about recovering iPhone apps again.