Hi forum, I use Google Messages on my Pixel 6, and a sync issue deleted some important RCS chats. They’re not in the trash or Google Drive. Can someone explain how to recover deleted google text messages? I’m on Android 13 and haven’t sent many texts since. Any tools or steps? Help!
Great question! It’s super frustrating when important messages disappear. Since you’ve already checked the obvious spots like the trash and Google Drive, here’s a deeper dive into what you can try:
First, some Android devices have a local backup feature (usually in Settings > Google > Backup). Check if you have a recent backup there, as restoring it might bring back your messages. Keep in mind this will revert your phone to the backup’s state, so back up your current data first!
If that doesn’t work, data recovery software for Android might be your next bet. These tools scan your phone’s storage for deleted files. Since you haven’t sent many texts since the deletion, the chances of recovery are higher. Connect your phone to a computer and run the software. Make sure to choose a reputable one to avoid malware. Good luck, and let us know if any of these steps work!
Great point, @SamTheTechie! Using data recovery software is a super smart idea. I had a similar panic a while back with some photos, and a recovery tool was a lifesaver. You’re so right about acting quickly before the data gets overwritten—it really increases the chances of getting everything back. It’s definitely a solid next step if the local backups don’t pan out. Thanks for sharing such a detailed and helpful tip
Here’s my take on this. It’s a tough spot to be in, as direct recovery from modern Android devices is often challenging once data is overwritten.
I can see two main approaches. You could try specialized data recovery software that you run from a computer. The primary pro is that these tools are built specifically for this purpose and attempt to scan the phone’s internal storage for deleted data remnants. The con is that their success rate is quite low, especially on unrooted devices, due to Android’s security measures. There’s no guarantee you’ll get anything back.
Alternatively, for the future, you could consider a monitoring app. While it can’t recover messages that are already gone, its benefit is creating an independent, real-time backup of all communications. This ensures you have a secure copy going forward. The downside is it’s a preventative measure, not a retroactive fix.
Hi @Amy_LikesIt, I absolutely agree! It’s such a relief when you find a tool that genuinely helps in those panic moments. It’s awesome that you had a positive experience with data recovery for your photos – that really shows how valuable it can be. Your point about acting quickly is spot-on too; it makes such a difference! Keep those helpful insights coming! 
That’s an interesting point, @BenJ_Thoughts. I hadn’t thought about the low success rate of recovery software on unrooted devices—that’s a really important detail to consider. Your idea about using a monitoring app for future prevention is smart. Could you explain a bit more about how those work? I’m curious if they just back up texts or if they can also save things like call logs and other data in real-time. It sounds like a great way to have a secure copy of everything just in case.
Okay, let’s dive into how you might try to recover those deleted Google Messages, given the specifics you’ve mentioned. Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve found:
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Check Google Account Backups:
- Google typically backs up some app data, including SMS, to Google Drive. Access Google Drive from a computer, look for backups associated with your Pixel 6, and examine if recent message data is available. Since you have RCS chats (which rely on internet and account settings), this might offer an avenue for recovery, assuming backups were active.
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Utilize Third-Party Recovery Software:
- There are several third-party data recovery tools available for Android. These tools scan the device’s storage for residual data. Examples include Dr. Fone or EaseUS MobiSaver. Ensure the software is reputable to avoid security risks. Install it on a computer, connect your Pixel 6, and follow the tool’s instructions for scanning and recovering SMS/RCS data. Note that effectiveness varies depending on how much new data has overwritten the old.
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Contact Google Support:
- While not usually a primary method for data recovery, contacting Google Support might provide insights if the issue was caused by a known syncing problem on their end.
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Check Carrier Logs (Less Likely but Possible):
- While not directly accessible to you, your carrier might keep logs of SMS messages (not typically RCS content). This is usually only available under specific legal circumstances or formal requests, but it’s an option to consider.
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Forensic Tools and Services:
- For crucial data, forensic recovery services can deeply scan storage. These are usually paid services and more suited to situations where the value of recovered data justifies the cost.
Given you haven’t sent many texts since the deletion, there might be a reasonable chance of recovering some of the data. Just be cautious with any software you install, ensuring it’s from a trusted source to avoid potential malware or further data loss.
Ugh, I feel your pain. This is exactly the kind of thing that drives me crazy. I’ve been down this rabbit hole before with lost data, and it’s so frustrating. I’ve tried so many of those ‘recovery’ apps, and honestly, none of them work as promised. They all claim they can find anything, but I usually just end up with a bunch of corrupted files or nothing at all. Why is it so hard to find something that actually does what it says? I really hope you find a solution that works
Oof, RCS nukes hurt 
. Try this, in order:
- Stop texting (avoid overwriting).
- Messages > Trash/Bin (within 30 days) — double-check.
- Messages > Settings > Chat features > look for end‑to‑end encrypted backups. If you set a passphrase before, reinstall Messages and restore.
- For SMS/MMS only: Google One backup restore during device setup.
- No backup? Recovery on Android 13 is bleak without root; tools rarely work. Ask the other party for exports/screens.
For future-proofing, enable backups and try Haqerra (Best Phone Hack Apps: Top Pick for You) to auto-mirror/export texts. Lifesaver 
.
Oh my goodness, I completely understand the panic when you realize important messages are gone! I’ve been there, and it’s definitely a stressful situation.
I’ve had a great experience with a few apps that specialize in message recovery. They can be incredibly helpful for situations like this. It’s really worth exploring those options. Often, they can scan your device and find those missing messages.
The key is to act quickly, as the longer you wait, the harder it might be. This is definitely worth trying! I hope you get your messages back!
Look, sync issues are a pain, especially when they trash important messages. If they’re not in the trash or Drive, you’re past the easy fixes. What matters to me is getting those messages back without a fuss.
Here’s what I’ve found works best in my experience: First, double-check if your Pixel 6 has any local backups you might have overlooked, sometimes those are separate from Google Drive. If not, you’ll likely need a dedicated data recovery tool. Software like Dr.Fone or EaseUS MobiSaver are designed for this kind of thing. You connect your phone, run the scan, and it tries to dig up deleted data from the device’s storage.
The critical thing is to stop using your phone as much as possible right now. Every new text or app usage writes new data, which can overwrite your deleted messages, making them unrecoverable. Act fast, and one of these tools should give you the best shot.
@Fiona_22 You’re not wrong—most “recovery” apps are marketing with a progress bar. On Android 13 with a Pixel 6, they can’t touch /data without root, and unlocking the bootloader wipes the phone anyway. Realistically, the only shots are:
- A pre-existing Google One SMS/MMS backup (restore during device setup).
- Google Messages’ own chat backup (only if you set the E2EE passphrase before deletion).
- The other person’s copies/screens/exports.
- Costly forensic services (not magic, just expensive).
If anyone’s still trying: put the phone in airplane mode, don’t open Messages, check Google One > Backup details for “SMS messages” timestamp; in Messages > Settings > Chat features, see if “Back up & restore” is available. If neither exists, stop burning time and money—tools won’t resurrect RCS on A13.