SMS/Text messaging is still important today as it's ever been. Although people use apps such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and more to keep in touch, text messaging allows users to contact others directly by sending a message directly to their phone number, rather than an app.

What are the benefits of using text messaging? Well, it's fast, secure, isn't scanned or checked by an application provider, and its functionality is built into every Android handset from the get-go. However, recovering deleted text messages can be quite a challenge if a backup hasn't been made, or if the handset has been used extensively since the deletion.

How to recover deleted texts on Android

Android text messages aren't permanently deleted when users get rid of them, they sit in a temporary file that marks the message for deletion. However, these temporary folders are overwritten as new text messages come in. 

If you've just deleted a text message, we'd recommend putting your phone in airplane mode so no new messages can come through. We can't guarantee that you'll get a deleted text message back, but here are the best methods we've found:

Ask the other person

Sounds simple, but it's a quick and easy way to get a message back. Simply ask the other person in the text conversation to grab a screenshot or to copy and paste the message to you again.  Problem solved! That's if the person in the text conversation is willing to do so. If they won't, continue to the next step:

Restore a phone backup

This will only work if you've done a recent backup of your Android device, which is always recommended before deleting texts or other sensitive information. Providing you're logged into your Google account, go to the Google Drive app and select Settings > Backup and reset to check that SMS and MMS messages are being backed up. 

If they've been backed up recently, you may be in luck. Go to Settings > System > Reset and follow the on-screen instructions. Once your phone has been restored, make sure to sign in to your Google account and opt to restore a backup.

SMS Recovery Apps and Services

The chances are they'll either be a cost involved, or the app will require root access to your device. Rooting an Android device voids a warranty and can damage it if not done correctly. If you are happy to foot the cost or know how to properly root your Android device, go for it. We must stress that using a recovery app should be a user's last resort, however.

Moving forward, there are apps such as SMS Backup and Restore that make backups of SMS and MMS in real-time, making sure users always have a backup on hand. Other than that, we'd recommend taking a screenshot or copying the SMS information onto a cloud-stored note.

Thanks for choosing PC Guide for learning how to recover deleted texts on Android. For more help with everything Android, check out and bookmark our Android hub.

About the Author

Christian Wait

Christian 'Reggie' Waits' is a contributor to PC Guide, having written a wide array of how to and buying guide content.