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How to download messages icon back on phone

Accidentally deleted messages icon on my phone, can’t find it anywhere. Go to App Store and can open it but can’t figure out how to download it again?

iPhone 11, iOS 16

Posted on Apr 1, 2023 6:45 PM

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Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Apr 1, 2023 6:46 PM

The Messages app cannot be deleted since it is a part of iOS. It is probably accidentally removed from the Home Screen, however, still exists in the App Library. The App Library is the last Home Screen on your iPhone when you continue to SWIPE LEFT until you reach it. Once you are in the App Library, then you can search and find the Messages app. Once found, then you can DRAG the app out of there and place it on your favorite spot of the Home Screen.


Axel F.

4 replies
Question marked as Best reply

Apr 1, 2023 6:46 PM in response to Lhollar

The Messages app cannot be deleted since it is a part of iOS. It is probably accidentally removed from the Home Screen, however, still exists in the App Library. The App Library is the last Home Screen on your iPhone when you continue to SWIPE LEFT until you reach it. Once you are in the App Library, then you can search and find the Messages app. Once found, then you can DRAG the app out of there and place it on your favorite spot of the Home Screen.


Axel F.

Apr 1, 2023 7:03 PM in response to Lhollar

Lhollar Said:

"How to download messages icon back on phone: Accidentally deleted messages icon on my phone, can’t find it anywhere. Go to App Store and can open it but can’t figure out how to download it again?"

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Troubleshooting Missing Builtin Apps:


A. Drag it Back:

Swipe your finger in from the right. Then, drag it back over.


No Success?...

B. Reset the Home Screen Layout:

If a widget or app has gone mossing somehow, then you may need to reset the Home Screen Layout...

Go Here: Move and organize apps on iPhone - Apple Support

You'd have to add back all the widgets that you can recall being back on there.

Scroll to: Reset the Home Screen and Apps to their Original Layout

  1. Go to: Settings
  2. Tap: General
  3. Tap: Reset
  4. Tap: Reset Home Screen Layout
  5. Then... Add the apps back

How to download messages icon back on phone

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