To see deleted messages on an iPhone, the primary and easiest way is to check the "Recently Deleted" folder in the Messages app (available if iOS 16 or later is installed). Deleted messages stay there for up to 30 days and can be recovered directly from this folder by selecting the messages and tapping "Recover." If the messages are not in this folder, they might be restored by using an iCloud backup (if backing up messages to iCloud is enabled) or by restoring the device from a previous backup made before the messages were deleted. Another option when messages have been deleted for more than 30 days or are not recoverable from the Recently Deleted folder is to check on a Mac signed in with the same Apple ID, where old messages synced may still be accessible.
How to See and Recover Deleted Messages on iPhone
- Open the Messages app.
- Tap "Edit" or "Filters" in the top-left corner.
- Select "Show Recently Deleted."
- Select the deleted messages you want to see.
- Tap "Recover" to restore them back to your main inbox.
Alternative Recovery Methods
- Turn on Messages in iCloud in Settings > Apple ID > iCloud to sync messages.
- Restore iPhone from a backup in Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings, then restore from iCloud backup (note: this will erase current data).
- For deleted messages older than 30 days or that are not in Recently Deleted, connect to a Mac signed in with the same Apple ID and check the Messages app there as a synced copy might be available.
This covers basic to advanced options to find and restore deleted messages on an iPhone.
