How to See Deleted Messages on iPhone: Have you ever accidentally deleted an important text message on your iPhone and wished you could get it back? You’re not alone.
Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation or a crucial business message, losing important texts can feel devastating. The good news? Apple offers several ways to recover deleted messages, and third-party tools can come to the rescue too.
In this guide, we’ll explore various methods to help you recover deleted messages on your iPhone.
Methods to Recover Deleted Messages on iPhone
Using the Recently Deleted Folder
Apple introduced the Recently Deleted feature for iMessage, which works similarly to the Recycle Bin on your computer. This feature temporarily holds deleted messages before permanently erasing them.
Steps to Recover Messages from Recently Deleted Folder:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone.
- Tap Filters in the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select Recently Deleted from the menu.
- Browse through the list of deleted messages.
- Select the conversation or message you wish to restore.
- Tap Recover to restore the message back to the Messages app.
Tip: Messages remain in the Recently Deleted folder for 30 days before they are permanently erased.
Restoring from an iCloud Backup
If you back up your iPhone regularly to iCloud, you can restore deleted messages by rolling back to a previous backup.
Steps to Restore Messages from iCloud Backup:
- Open Settings and tap on your name at the top.
- Go to iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups.
- Check the date of your most recent backup to ensure it contains the deleted messages.
- Reset your iPhone by navigating to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device.
- Choose Restore from iCloud Backup when prompted and sign in to your Apple ID.
- Select the relevant backup file to restore your device.
Note: This method erases current data, so ensure you save any new data before restoring.
Restoring from an iTunes/Finder Backup
If you’ve created backups on your computer, you can use iTunes (Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later) to recover deleted messages.
Steps to Recover Messages from iTunes/Finder Backup:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes or Finder and select your iPhone.
- Click Restore Backup under the General or Summary tab.
- Choose a backup file from the list, ensuring it predates the message deletion.
- Click Restore and wait for the process to complete.
Warning: Restoring from a backup will overwrite your current data.
Using Third-Party Recovery Software
When no backup is available, third-party recovery tools can help retrieve deleted messages directly from your iPhone. Popular options include Dr.Fone, iMobie PhoneRescue, and Tenorshare UltData.
Steps to Recover Messages with Third-Party Software:
- Download and install the recovery tool on your computer.
- Connect your iPhone via a Lightning cable.
- Launch the software and select the option to scan for deleted messages.
- Review the scan results to locate the deleted messages.
- Follow the tool’s instructions to restore the messages.
Caution: Only use reputable software to avoid data breaches or device issues.
How to Enable Message Backups to Avoid Data Loss
Setting Up iCloud Backup for Messages
Regular backups are crucial for protecting your messages. Here’s how to enable iCloud backups for messages:
- Open Settings and tap on your name.
- Go to iCloud and toggle on Messages.
- Ensure iCloud Backup is turned on and tap Back Up Now to create an immediate backup.
Creating Regular iTunes/Finder Backups
Creating local backups on your computer ensures you have a copy of your data:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer.
- Open iTunes or Finder and select your iPhone.
- Click Back Up Now to create a full device backup.
Tip: Store backups on an external drive for added security.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Backup Not Found
If backups are unavailable, check your iCloud settings to ensure backups were enabled. Alternatively, verify your computer for local backups.
Restored Data Not Showing Up
Sometimes restored messages don’t appear immediately. Restart your iPhone or ensure you’re using the correct Apple ID.
Compatibility Issues
Ensure your iPhone is running the same or a newer iOS version as the one used during the backup.
Tips to Prevent Losing Important Messages
- Enable automatic backups via iCloud.
- Archive critical conversations by saving screenshots or exporting them.
- Double-check before deleting messages.
FAQs About How to See Deleted Messages on iPhone
Q: Can I recover deleted messages directly on my iPhone?
Yes, if you recently deleted the message, check the “Recently Deleted” folder in the Messages app. This folder keeps deleted messages for up to 30 days.
Q: How do I restore deleted messages from iCloud backup?
To recover messages from an iCloud backup, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Then, set up your iPhone and choose the backup that contains the deleted messages. Be aware this process erases current data on your device.
Q: Can third-party apps retrieve deleted messages?
Yes, some apps like iMobie PhoneRescue or Dr.Fone claim to recover deleted messages. Ensure you download trusted apps to protect your data privacy.
Q: What if I don’t have a backup?
Without a backup, recovering deleted messages may not be possible. Consider enabling iCloud backups to avoid future data loss.
Q: Are deleted messages retrievable through my service provider?
Some providers may retain text message logs for a limited time. Contact your carrier to see if this option is available.
Conclusion
Recovering deleted messages on an iPhone doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you use the Recently Deleted folder, restore from backups, or opt for third-party tools, there’s a solution for every situation. To avoid future data loss, always enable regular backups and stay proactive in managing your messages.
