Short answerDeleting a vault app deletes the files stored inside it on that device. If the vault backed up to iCloud or exported an encrypted file, you can reinstall and restore. With VaultBolt, reinstall, choose Restore and enter your 12-word recovery phrase.
What happens
Each app has a private container. Delete the app and iOS deletes the container, including every file in the vault.
Getting them back
| Vault backup type | After deleting the app |
|---|---|
| Encrypted iCloud backup (VaultBolt, Vaultaire, Inner Gallery) | Reinstall and restore |
| Encrypted export file (Obscura) | Import the file |
| Developer cloud with account | Sign in again |
| Device only (some apps say so in their listing) | Gone |
Before you delete any vault
- Open it and check the last backup.
- Or export everything to Files.
- Confirm the exported files open.
- Then delete the app.
Frequently asked questions
Are vault photos in my iPhone backup?
Some apps' data is included in iCloud or computer device backups, some excludes itself. Don't rely on it; use the vault's own backup.
How do I safely remove a vault app?
Export everything you want to keep, check the exported files open, then delete the app. Remember to delete exported copies you don't need.
