To retrieve deleted text messages, the method depends on whether you use an iPhone or an Android device.
For iPhone (iOS 16 or later)
- Open the Messages app.
- On the conversations list, tap Edit (top-left) or Filters if Edit is not visible.
- Tap Show Recently Deleted.
- Select the conversations or messages you want to restore.
- Tap Recover , then confirm by tapping Recover Messages.
- Messages deleted within the last 30 days can be recovered this way.
- If you use Messages in iCloud, recovery syncs messages across all your Apple devices.
- Note: Messages deleted using Undo Send or expired audio messages cannot be recovered
For Android
- Check if your messaging app has a Recycle Bin or Trash (e.g., Samsung Messages app).
- Open Messages app.
- Tap the menu (three dots) and select Recycle Bin or Trash.
- Long-press the message to restore and tap Restore.
- If you enabled Google Drive backup for messages:
- You may need to factory reset the phone and restore from the backup.
- If no backup or recycle bin is available, use third-party recovery software like FoneLab or SMS Restore and Backup apps.
- These tools often require connecting your phone to a computer or granting permissions.
- Some may require rooting your device.
- Always verify the authenticity of third-party apps before use
In summary, iPhone users with recent iOS versions can recover deleted messages directly from the Messages app within 30 days. Android users should first check for a recycle bin or backup, and if unavailable, consider third-party recovery tools. Acting quickly improves chances of successful recovery.
