MacBook search not finding Messages conversation

I have a text string going with a friend yet when I search on my macbook it does not find it. If I go to their contact and click on the message icon in their contact the conversation comes up so i know it still exist.


MacBook Air, macOS 26.2

Posted on Jan 13, 2026 8:23 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 13, 2026 10:26 AM

Is Spotlight permitted to read your messages?


Check System Settings -> Spotlight and you can see a list of apps/content that Spotlight is 'allowed' to see and include in searches:


2 replies

Jan 13, 2026 12:18 PM in response to mailaddress

Thank you very much for the quick reply. I did as you suggested and VERIFIED that Spotlight was turned on. If it means anything, if I go to a person's contact and click on the message icon, the string with them comes up and then subsequent searches find the thread.

I can duplicate this problem of not being able to search and find conversations for some names but NOT ALL.


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

MacBook search not finding Messages conversation

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.