Retrieving and deleting individual messages from iCloud storage on iPhone

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Level 1

4 points

Retrieving and deleting individual messages from iCloud storage on iPhone

How to retrieve messages in iCloud storage in order to delete individually? I want to clear up spaces for my iCloud storage since not able to backup phone due to not enough storage in iCloud. Weird, I only have about 46 photos and showing around 113 messages in iCloud. Total showing storage 3.1 out of the 5 Gb free iCloud storage. Thx

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iCloud messages storage

iPhone 12, iOS 18

Posted on Jun 25, 2025 03:50 PM

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Answer 1

zinacef

Level 10

88,714 points

Jun 25, 2025 04:22 PM in response to hoodybear

Delete Messages Individually from iCloud (via iPhone/iPad)

Since iCloud syncs Messages across devices, deleting them on your phone will also delete them from iCloud (if "Messages in iCloud" is turned on):

Check if Messages are stored in iCloud:

- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Messages – make sure it's toggled ON.

Open the Messages app:

- Delete entire conversations: Swipe left on a conversation > tap Delete.
Delete individual messages:
- - Open a conversation.
Tap and hold a message > tap More... > select messages > tap trash can icon > Delete Message.

Empty recently deleted (if visible):

- Some iOS versions have a "Recently Deleted" section in the Messages app (in Filters view) — delete permanently from there if present.

After Deleting: Force iCloud Sync

Plug in your phone, connect to Wi-Fi, and lock the screen — give it time to sync deletions to iCloud.
You can also go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now to force backup once enough space is freed.

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