To retrieve deleted text messages, the method depends on whether you use an iPhone or an Android device.

For iPhone (iOS 16 or later)

• Open the Messages app.
• On the conversations list, tap Edit (top-left) or Filters if Edit is not visible.
• Tap Show Recently Deleted.
• Select the conversations or messages you want to restore.
• Tap Recover , then confirm by tapping Recover Messages.
• Messages deleted within the last 30 days can be recovered this way.
• If you use Messages in iCloud, recovery syncs messages across all your Apple devices.
• Note: Messages deleted using Undo Send or expired audio messages cannot be recovered

For Android

• Check if your messaging app has a Recycle Bin or Trash (e.g., Samsung Messages app).
  • Open Messages app.
  • Tap the menu (three dots) and select Recycle Bin or Trash.
  • Long-press the message to restore and tap Restore.
• If you enabled Google Drive backup for messages:
  • You may need to factory reset the phone and restore from the backup.
• If no backup or recycle bin is available, use third-party recovery software like FoneLab or SMS Restore and Backup apps.
  • These tools often require connecting your phone to a computer or granting permissions.
  • Some may require rooting your device.
• Always verify the authenticity of third-party apps before use

In summary, iPhone users with recent iOS versions can recover deleted messages directly from the Messages app within 30 days. Android users should first check for a recycle bin or backup, and if unavailable, consider third-party recovery tools. Acting quickly improves chances of successful recovery.