Open messages app on iPad. I rely on Search to quickly find a conversation with a contact. I know how to pull down to make it appear. Works great on my iPhone. On my iPad, my only choice is to scroll through all my previous texts, to find their name. So frustrating. Yes everything is updated. I’ve seen all other threads on what to check.
iPad Pro, iPadOS 15
Hello lindseyfromsaint Louis,
Thanks for posting in the Apple Support Communities. We're happy to look into this with you.
When looking at the messages and doing the pulldown motion so the Search option is presented, are you doing so on the left side where your list of conversations is located?
You mentioned that everything is updated. Just so we're clear, is the iPad you're using not eligible to install iPadOS 16? We ask this because in your post, iPadOS 15 is listed for your software.
Have you tried restarting your iPad or quitting the Messages app to see if either option is helpful? If not, give those actions a try and see if they make any impact on the issue you're having.
Close an app on your iPhone or iPod touch - Apple Support
Restart your iPad - Apple Support
Best regards.
Hi lindseyfromsaint louis,
We've recently released an update for iPadOS. Installing the update can help resolve the issues with the search option plus provide the latest bug fixes and security protections. Be sure to create a backup prior to updating. Use the steps below for guidance:
1. Back up your device using iCloud or your computer.
2. Plug your device into power and connect to the internet with Wi-Fi.
3. Go to Settings > General, then tap Software Update.
4. If you see more than one software update option available, choose the one that you want to install.
5. Tap Install Now. If you see Download and Install instead, tap it to download the update, enter your passcode, then tap Install Now. If you don't know your passcode, learn what to do.
This information is from the article Update your iPhone or iPad.
Take care.
The iPad Pro I'm discussing shows OS 16.1.1. Not sure how this thread picks up an iOS? I have 4 different iPads. Yes I pull down on the left side where the conversations are. I use that feature frequently on my iPhone and iPad. Yes I have restarted. It is there sometimes. Not always.
You need to update your iPad to the current version - this being iPadOS 16.3.
Some earlier versions of iPadOS exhibited a bug that suppressed the search dialogue.
Messages App on IPad - Search disappears - even if I pull down!
