Have you ever opened WhatsApp and seen the message: “This message was deleted”? It’s frustrating because you’re left curious about what was written. The good news is—there are several methods you can use to see deleted messages on WhatsApp, both with and without third-party apps.
This guide will explain how the deleted message system works, and show you safe, practical ways to view deleted messages on Android and iPhone.
What Does “This Message Was Deleted” Mean?

This feature was introduced by WhatsApp in 2017. It allows a sender to delete a message from both sides of the chat within a limited time. The deleted message is replaced with the note:
“This message was deleted.”
Why Do People Want to Recover Deleted Messages?
- Curiosity – To know what was removed.
- Important Information – Sometimes deleted messages contain key details.
- Proof & Records – Useful for personal or professional purposes.
Built-in Options to See Deleted WhatsApp Messages
Unlike some modified versions like Blue WhatsApp, the official WhatsApp doesn’t provide a direct way to see deleted messages. However, you can still use these methods:
1. Using WhatsApp Notification Log (Android Only)
- On Android, system notifications often store incoming messages.
- Even if the sender deletes it, you can check the notification log to read the text.
- Steps:
- Go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings.
- Enable Notification History (available on Android 11+).
- Open the log to see messages, including deleted ones.
- Go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings.
2. Restoring from WhatsApp Chat Backup
WhatsApp automatically creates backups (daily, weekly, or monthly).
- If a message was deleted after the last backup, you can restore WhatsApp from that backup.
- Steps:
- Uninstall WhatsApp.
- Reinstall and log in with your number.
- Choose Restore from Backup.
- Your chats will be restored, including deleted ones.
- Uninstall WhatsApp.

Third-Party Apps to View Deleted WhatsApp Messages
Several apps claim to recover deleted messages. They work by saving notifications before the message gets deleted.
1. Notification History Apps
- Apps like Notification History Log or Notisave can store deleted messages.
- Pros: Simple to use.
- Cons: Limited to text (images/videos usually don’t work).
2. Data Recovery Tools
Advanced tools like Dr.Fone or iMyFone D-Back help recover deleted messages from device storage or backups.
3. Blue WhatsApp
You can download Blue WhatsApp from Bluewa.dev, Which is one of the most downloaded WhatsApp MOD APK. Also you can try other WhatsApp MOD too, such as GBWhatsApp, FMWhatsApp and YOWhatsApp.
Special Methods for Different Devices
On Android
- Use Notification History or third-party apps like Notisave.
- Enable frequent backups for easier recovery.
On iPhone
- iOS doesn’t allow notification log access, so your best bet is iCloud backup restoration or professional iOS data recovery tools.
Limitations of Recovering Deleted WhatsApp Messages
- Storage and Backup Settings – If you don’t back up chats, recovery becomes impossible.
- Time Restrictions – Notifications may only store deleted messages for a short period.
- Security Concerns – Third-party apps can compromise your privacy if not chosen carefully.
Expert Tips to Prevent Losing WhatsApp Messages
- Enable Regular Cloud Backups – Daily backups ensure you don’t lose chats.
- Export Important Chats – Use WhatsApp’s “Export Chat” feature for critical conversations.
- Use Trusted Tools Only – Avoid shady apps; stick to well-reviewed recovery tools.
FAQs
Can I recover messages deleted by someone else?
Yes, through notification history or backups, but only if your phone stored them before deletion.
Do notification history apps really work?
Yes, for text messages. They don’t usually recover deleted images or videos.
Can I see deleted media (photos/videos)?
Only if you already downloaded them before deletion.
How far back can I restore deleted messages?
It depends on your backup frequency (daily, weekly, monthly).
Is it safe to use third-party apps for this?
Only if downloaded from trusted sources. Some may pose privacy risks.
Does WhatsApp plan to add an official feature for this?
As of now, no official feature exists, and WhatsApp has not announced plans for one.
Conclusion
While WhatsApp doesn’t officially allow viewing deleted messages, there are reliable methods to access them. From using notification history (Android) to restoring from backups or using trusted third-party tools, you can recover most deleted messages with ease. Best all in one solution is to download Blue WhatsApp APK to see deleted messages.
Contents
- 1 What Does “This Message Was Deleted” Mean?
- 2 Why Do People Want to Recover Deleted Messages?
- 3 Built-in Options to See Deleted WhatsApp Messages
- 4 Third-Party Apps to View Deleted WhatsApp Messages
- 5 Special Methods for Different Devices
- 6 Limitations of Recovering Deleted WhatsApp Messages
- 7 Expert Tips to Prevent Losing WhatsApp Messages
- 8 FAQs
- 9 Conclusion