How do i get back permanently deleted messages

I accidentally permanently deleted a message and want to get it back but know how to.

iPhone 11, iOS 16

Posted on Aug 12, 2023 6:49 AM

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Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Aug 12, 2023 6:56 AM

To learn how to retrieve a deleted message or conversation if you were using iOS 16 or iPadOS 16.1 or later, read this support article --> Recover deleted text messages on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


How to retrieve a deleted message or conversation

1. In Messages, tap Edit on the conversations page. If you previously turned Message Filtering on, the Edit button doesn't appear. Instead, tap Filters on the conversations page.

2. Tap Show Recently Deleted [trash icon].

3. Choose the conversations with the messages you want to restore, then tap Recover. On the Recently Deleted page in Messages, tap the conversation that includes messages you want to recover.

4. Tap Recover Message or Recover [Number] Messages.


You need iOS 16, iPadOS 16.1, or later to recover deleted messages and conversations. You can only recover messages and conversations that you deleted within the last 30 to 40 days.



Typically if you delete something from a "Recently Deleted" folder that means it is gone for good. Permanently means permanently.

5 replies
Question marked as Best reply

Aug 12, 2023 6:56 AM in response to korianah

To learn how to retrieve a deleted message or conversation if you were using iOS 16 or iPadOS 16.1 or later, read this support article --> Recover deleted text messages on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


How to retrieve a deleted message or conversation

1. In Messages, tap Edit on the conversations page. If you previously turned Message Filtering on, the Edit button doesn't appear. Instead, tap Filters on the conversations page.

2. Tap Show Recently Deleted [trash icon].

3. Choose the conversations with the messages you want to restore, then tap Recover. On the Recently Deleted page in Messages, tap the conversation that includes messages you want to recover.

4. Tap Recover Message or Recover [Number] Messages.


You need iOS 16, iPadOS 16.1, or later to recover deleted messages and conversations. You can only recover messages and conversations that you deleted within the last 30 to 40 days.



Typically if you delete something from a "Recently Deleted" folder that means it is gone for good. Permanently means permanently.

Jan 30, 2024 12:32 PM in response to korianah

Recovering permanently deleted messages on an iPhone can be challenging, as iOS does not have a built-in feature to retrieve messages that have been permanently deleted. However, here are some potential steps you can take:


Check iCloud or iTunes Backup:


If you have regularly backed up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes, you might be able to restore your device to a previous backup that includes the messages you want to recover. Keep in mind that this will replace your current data with the data from the backup.


Restore from iCloud:


If you use iCloud for backups, you can erase your device and restore it from an iCloud backup. To do this, go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups. Choose the relevant backup and restore your device.


Restore from iTunes:


If you have an iTunes backup, you can connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes, and choose to restore your device from a backup.


Third-Party Data Recovery Software:


There are third-party tools available that claim to recover deleted data from iPhones. These tools may require a subscription or one-time payment. However, be cautious while using such tools and ensure they are reputable and have positive reviews.


Contact Apple Support:


If the messages are of critical importance, you can contact Apple Support for assistance. They may be able to provide guidance on whether there are any additional options available.


Check Other Devices:


If you use iCloud for Messages, check your other Apple devices (iPad, Mac) to see if the messages are still available there. Messages synced through iCloud should be accessible on multiple devices.


Review Archived Conversations:


Sometimes, messages may not be deleted but rather moved to an archived conversation. Scroll through your Messages app to check if the messages are in any archived conversations.

It's essential to note that once messages are permanently deleted, the chances of recovering them are limited. Regularly backing up your iPhone is a good practice to avoid data loss in the future. Always be cautious when using third-party tools and consider the potential risks associated with data recovery methods.

Jan 30, 2024 12:36 PM in response to onlinebillexpert

onlinebillexpert wrote:


Check iCloud or iTunes Backup:

If you have regularly backed up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes, you might be able to restore your device to a previous backup that includes the messages you want to recover. Keep in mind that this will replace your current data with the data from the backup.

If someone is using iCloud Syncing for Messages, messages are not part of an iCloud back up.


Contact Apple Support:

If the messages are of critical importance, you can contact Apple Support for assistance. They may be able to provide guidance on whether there are any additional options available.

No, Apple cannot recover permanently deleted messages.


Check Other Devices:

If you use iCloud for Messages, check your other Apple devices (iPad, Mac) to see if the messages are still available there. Messages synced through iCloud should be accessible on multiple devices.

If someone is using iCloud Syncing for Messages, deleting them on one device deletes them on all synced devices so this makes no sense.


Review Archived Conversations:

Sometimes, messages may not be deleted but rather moved to an archived conversation. Scroll through your Messages app to check if the messages are in any archived conversations.

Messages doesn't have a way to "archive" conversations.


How do i get back permanently deleted messages

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