How to Unsend iMessage Texts [Video]

Accidentally sent a text message you regret? With iOS 16 or later, you can unsend iMessage texts.

Previously, there was little you could do if you sent a message to the wrong person. A quick switch to Airplane mode could occasionally prevent an outgoing message from being delivered; however, it was far from reliable.

Similar to other messaging apps, Apple has now introduced an undo send feature for text messages sent between Apple devices. Follow these steps quickly because you only have two minutes to unsend messages.

Step One

Tap to launch the Messages app from your Springboard, then open your conversation.

Step Two

Press and hold (long press) the sent message you want to retract, then tap "Undo send" from the contextual menu that appears.


The message will vanish and be replaced with the following warning...

"You unsent a message. [Name] may still see the message on devices where the software hasn't been updated."

Important Notes

Unfortunately, these steps do not work for SMS text messages.

If you didn't see the "Undo Send" option, that means you've exceeded the two minute window allowed for unsending iMessages. However, all hope is not lost iPhone users. You may still be able to edit the iMessage.

iOS 16 also added the option to edit a text message and we've posted instructions on how to do that here:
● How to Edit iMessage Texts

What's Difference Between iMessage and SMS texts

iMessages are texts, photos, or videos that you send to another iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac over Wi-Fi or cellular-data networks. These messages are always encrypted and appear in blue text bubbles. To turn iMessage on or off, go to Settings > Messages.

If you aren’t using iMessage, you can use SMS/MMS. These messages are texts and photos that you send to other cell phones or another iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. SMS/MMS messages aren't encrypted and appear in green text bubbles on your device.