Lost Messages

Hello sjnbecker,

Thanks for posting in Apple Support Communities. When using iCloud for Messages, changes sync across all devices where enabled. So, message settings will change everywhere you are signed in and using iCloud for Messages.

As mentioned in Delete and recover messages on your iPhone or iPad, "You can only recover messages and conversations that you deleted within the last 30 to 40 days."

Restoring a backup as you mentioned may be possible since those were done using a computer. It sounds like you may be looking at all available backups of your iPhone on your Mac. However, try these steps if you haven't already. They are from Locate backups of your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

"Search for the backup folder on your Mac

To find a list of your backups:

1. Click the magnifier  in the menu bar.
2. Type or copy and paste this: ~/Library/Application Support/MobileSync/Backup/
3. Select the Backup folder under Folders."

All the best.

Hi sjnbecker,

Yes, this article has the steps to recover deleted messages on your Mac: Delete messages and conversations in Messages on Mac

"

Recover a recently deleted message or conversation

When you delete a message or conversation, it’s moved to the Recently Deleted folder. You can view and recover items in the Recently Deleted folder for up to 30 days. After 30 days, the messages are removed from all your devices. After 40 days, the messages are permanently deleted from iCloud.

1. In the Messages app  on your Mac, choose View > Recently Deleted.
2. Select the conversation in the sidebar.
3. Do one of the following:

• Recover a recently deleted message or conversation: Click Recover.
• Permanently delete a recently deleted message or conversation: Click Delete.

"

Take care.

Hi sjnbecker,

If iCloud for Messages is active then when your messages are deleted, they are deleted on every device they sync. Also see: Keep your messages up to date with iCloud.

Note this section:

"When you set up iCloud for Messages, your messages are stored in the cloud instead of locally on your device."

Since messages wont take up device storage with iCloud, you may want to start keeping them forever instead of 30 days.

Have a fantastic day!