Permanently Delete Messages in iOS 16/iPadOS 16 on iPhone and iPad
To begin with, let’s first understand how message deletion works in the latest iteration of iOS. Once you have gone through it, you will no longer be in the grip of any confusion.
How Does Message Deletion Work in iOS 16/iPadOS 16?
iOS 16 has added a folder called “Recently Deleted” where all the deleted messages are automatically stored. Hence, if you ever decide to get back any of the messages, you can recover them without any hassle. Note that deleted conversations show the days remaining before the permanent deletion. After that, messages are cleaned up permanently. It’s important to point out that it may take up to 40 days. That means, even after you have deleted a message, it may exist for up to 40 days on your device. So, if you ever want to get rid of any sensitive message, keep this thing in mind. Fortunately, Apple allows you to delete all messages at once or clean up the already deleted messages individually. Hence, you can choose the preferred method depending on your needs.
Permanently Delete Specific Messages on iPhone and iPad
- First off, open the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Now, tap on the Filters option at the top left corner of the screen.
- Tap on the Recently Deleted folder that appears at the bottom of the list.
- Next, select all the messages you want to clean up and hit the Delete button.
Permanently Delete All Messages at Once on iPhone and iPad
- Head over to the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad -> Filters -> Recently Deleted.
- Now, tap on Delete All and confirm the action.
Signing Off…
No matter how good something is, it may not be without flaws. And this “Messages Recovery” feature is a classic example of this saying. While it can’t be the dealbreaker, you should be fully aware of the downside. Especially when dealing with sensitive messages. Talking about the stock messaging app, it has also got the feature to let you mark messages as unread and use SharePlay right in the conversation thread. If you are yet to get the most out of these new add-ons, make sure to check out our articles. And, also share your thoughts about the Apple’s Messages app.
