Help restore messaging app deletions after 26.2 update

If anyone knows how to restore #images (gifs) and ‘MORE’ under the messaging app on two iPhone 14s that disappeared with the recent update to 26.2, I’d be very grateful. And the phones are not backed up on iCloud. Thanks.

iPhone 14 Plus, iOS 26

Posted on Jan 23, 2026 9:22 PM

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3 replies

Jan 23, 2026 9:56 PM in response to HowardBannister

Help restore messaging app deletions after 26.2 update: If anyone knows how to restore #images (gifs) and ‘MORE’ under the messaging app on two iPhone 14s that disappeared with the recent update to 26.2, I’d be very grateful. And the phones are not backed up on iCloud. Thanks.

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Restoring Message Threads Images After an Update:


A. Turn Off ALL VPN Connections:

Have any VPN connections turned on? If so, then you may be hung connection and sync issues here. So, turn all VPNs off.


B. Permit Cellular App to Access Photos App:

Be certain that you are not limited to only a certain amount of data, as accessing it

  1. Go to: Settings
  2. Tap: Cellular
  3. Tap: Show All
  4. Toggle On: Photos


C. Try Exporting your Message App Thread(s):

Not certain this would show the images, as it sometimes does and sometimes does not. So, try it on a thread, seeing if they are restored that way: How to Save or Print a Complete iPhone Messages Threads- User Tip

Jan 24, 2026 1:56 AM in response to HowardBannister

GIFs and #images issues are not caused by the iOS 26.2 update. Many things can cause #images problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: OS — iOS 26, About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



Help restore messaging app deletions after 26.2 update

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