Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsTo empty deleted items on a Samsung phone, open the app that deleted them and clear its Recycle bin or Trash. For general files, go to My Files > Recycle bin > More > Empty. Photos and videos are managed in Gallery, while recordings are managed in Voice Recorder. Check the contents first: permanent deletion removes the items from that bin’s restore options.
Choose the bin that matches the app
Samsung’s bins are associated with the apps that handle the deleted content. Start with the app you used to delete the item; menu labels and placement can vary by phone model, region, and software version. Samsung’s instructions cover My Files, Gallery, and Voice Recorder. Samsung Canada’s support guide was last updated June 18, 2026.
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| Deleted content | Where to look | Bulk deletion | Selected deletion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Documents and other files | My Files > Recycle bin | More > Empty | Edit, select items, then Delete |
| Photos and videos | Gallery > Menu > Recycle bin or Trash | Delete All, or use the Trash menu’s empty option where available | Edit, select items, then Delete |
| Voice recordings | Voice Recorder > More > Recycle bin | Edit and select the recordings to delete | Edit, select items, then Delete |
Empty My Files Recycle bin
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Open My Files and tap Recycle bin.
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To remove everything in the bin, tap More (three vertical dots), then Empty.
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To remove only certain files, tap Edit, select the files, then tap Delete.
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The selection screen also offers Restore. Review the list before deleting so you do not permanently remove something you still need. Samsung also documents a way to view bins by app at Settings > Device care > Storage management > Recycle bin > My Files. Samsung’s My Files instructions describe these controls.
Delete photos and videos from Gallery
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Open Gallery, tap Menu (three horizontal lines), then tap Recycle bin.
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- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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Tap Edit, select the photos or videos, then tap Delete or Delete All and confirm.
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Some Gallery interfaces use the label Trash and a different sequence: Menu > Trash > More options > Empty > Delete. Samsung’s US storage guide documents that route. Follow the wording shown on your phone rather than assuming every model has the same menu. Samsung US: Free up storage space on your Samsung phone.
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Samsung says deleted Gallery items stay in the bin for 30 days before automatic permanent deletion. This retention period is stated for Gallery; it should not be assumed to apply to every app’s bin. Samsung Canada’s Gallery instructions.
Delete Voice Recorder files
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Open Voice Recorder and tap More (three vertical dots).
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Tap Recycle bin, then Edit.
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Select the recordings to remove, tap Delete, and confirm.
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Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
The bin also has restore controls, so check the selected recordings before confirming deletion. Samsung’s Voice Recorder instructions.
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
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If you cannot find Recycle bin or Trash
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Open the relevant Samsung app and check its menu; the bin may be called Trash rather than Recycle bin.
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For My Files, try Settings > Device care > Storage management > Recycle bin > My Files.
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Use the labels visible on your device. Samsung notes that screens and menu placement can differ across models and software versions. It also says the recycle-bin function cannot be turned off. Samsung support.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
What permanent deletion means
Deleting an item from a bin removes it from that bin’s available restore controls. Before using Empty, Delete All, or confirming an individual deletion, inspect the contents and restore anything you want to keep. The exact controls depend on the app and the interface available on your phone.
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