How to Retrieve Deleted Texts

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Open iTunes on a computer.

   iTunes is white with a multicolored musical note on it.
   
   If you're prompted to click Download iTunes, do so before continuing.
   
   You'll need to update and then restart your computer before you can continue.
   
   If you want to use an iCloud backup instead, open your iPhone's Settings.
2. 2

   Step 2: Attach your iPhone to the computer.

   Do so by attaching your iPhone charger cable to the computer and then plugging it into your phone.
   
   If you're using an iCloud backup, scroll down and tap General, then scroll all the way down and tap Reset. , It's an iPhone-shaped icon in the top-left side of the iTunes window.
   
   Doing this opens the "Summary" page.
   
   For an iCloud backup, tap Erase All Content and Settings, then enter your passcode if prompted. , It's on the right side of the "Backups" section near the top of the page.
   
   If prompted, turn off "Find My iPhone" before proceeding.
   
   If your iPhone doesn't automatically back up, you can click Back Up Now to save a current backup just in case you wish to restore to it later.
   
   If you're using an iCloud backup, tap Erase iPhone twice, then wait for your phone to complete the erasing procedure. , A drop-down menu will appear.
   
   For an iCloud backup, press the Home button when prompted. , This must be a date at which your deleted text messages were still on the iPhone.
   
   For an iCloud backup, select a language and region, select a Wi-Fi network, and then tap Restore from iCloud Backup. , It's on the right side of the "Backups" area of the page.
   
   Doing so will prompt your iPhone to begin backing up.
   
   If your selected backup is password-protected, first enter the password.
   
   You'll need to update your iPhone's software if prompted to do so.
   
   For an iCloud backup, enter your Apple ID information, then tap Choose Backup and select a backup date. , Once it does, you should be able to view your deleted text messages in the Messages app, which is the green app with a white speech bubble icon.
3. 3

   Step 3: Click the "Device" icon.

4. 4

   Step 4: Click Restore Backup.

5. 5

   Step 5: Click the box next to "iPhone Name" when prompted.

6. 6

   Step 6: Click a backup date.

7. 7

   Step 7: Click Restore.

8. 8

   Step 8: Wait for your restore to finish.

Detailed Guide

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