How to recover deleted text messages on Android
Samsung keeps deleted texts in Trash for 30 days. On Google Messages, a backup is usually the only way back.
The fix
Samsung Messages: Trash
- 1
Open Messages and tap the three dots.
- 2
Tap Trash.
- 3
Touch and hold the conversation and tap Restore.
The fix
Google Messages: Archived
- 1
Tap your profile picture or the menu.
- 2
Tap Archived and open the chat.
- 3
Tap Unarchive.
The fix
From a backup
- 1
Check the backup date in Settings › Google › Backup, or Samsung Cloud.
- 2
Back up anything new you want to keep.
- 3
Factory reset and restore the backup during setup.
Frequently asked questions
Do recovery apps really work?
On modern Android, rarely without root access, and many cannot reach encrypted storage. Try Trash and backups first.
Can my carrier give me the messages?
Most US carriers do not keep message content, only dates and numbers.
Related guides
Back up your Android phone
Back up your Android phone to Google with Google One, back up photos with Google Photos, or use Samsung Cloud, Smart Switch or a computer. Step by step.
Block a number on Android
Block a number on your Android phone from Recents or Phone settings on Samsung and Pixel. Also how to block texts, add a number by hand and unblock later.