Introduction
Texting has become second nature in our daily lives. But what happens when you send a message too quickly and instantly regret it? Whether it’s a typo, a wrong recipient, or something embarrassing, the question arises: Can you unsend a text on Android?
The answer depends on the type of message and the app you’re using. Let’s break down the possibilities.
SMS and MMS Messages
Traditional SMS (Short Message Service) and MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) are sent via cellular networks. Once delivered, they cannot be unsent because they are stored directly on the recipient’s device.
- Deleting a text on your phone does not delete it for the recipient.
- Carrier-level recalls are extremely rare and usually limited to enterprise services.
- Standard personal mobile plans do not support recalling SMS or MMS.
In short: If you use the default Messages app on Android (Samsung Messages, Xiaomi Messages, etc.), you cannot unsend texts once delivered.
Google Messages and RCS (Rich Communication Services)
Google Messages is the default app on Pixel devices and widely available on Android. Google is currently testing a “Delete for Everyone” feature for RCS chats.
- Both sender and recipient must use RCS with a compatible version.
- The recall window is expected to be around 15 minutes.
- The feature is not yet universally available but may roll out soon.
This could eventually bring Android closer to instant messaging apps that already support unsending.
Third-Party Messaging Apps with Unsend Features
Unlike SMS, many instant messaging apps allow you to unsend messages. Here’s how they compare:
| App | Time Limit | Recipient Notified? | Media Recall |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 days | Yes | Files not yet downloaded | |
| Messenger | 10 minutes | Yes | Yes |
| Snapchat | 10–12 minutes | No | Only if not viewed/saved |
| Telegram | No limit (personal chats) 2 days (group chats) |
No | Yes |
| Viber | 3 hours | Yes | Yes |
| Signal | 24 hours | No | Yes |
Workarounds for SMS on Android
1. Airplane Mode
If you act quickly, enabling Airplane Mode immediately after sending a text may stop delivery.
- Works only if the message is still in the sending process.
- Once delivered, it cannot be recalled.
2. Cancel Before Sending (Huawei Devices)
Some brands like Huawei offer a short recall window (around 6 seconds).
- Double-tap the message to cancel sending.
- Check your Messages app to see if this feature is available.
How to Unsend in Popular Messaging Apps
- Long press the message → Delete icon → Delete for Everyone.
- Works within 2 days.
- Recipient sees “This message was deleted.”
Messenger
- Long press the message → More → Delete → Delete for Everyone.
- Works within 10 minutes.
- Recipient sees “You unsent a message.”
Snapchat
- Tap and hold the message → Delete → Confirm.
- Works within 10–12 minutes.
- No notification to recipient.
Telegram
- Long press the message → Delete icon → Also delete for [recipient].
- No time limit for personal chats.
- No notification sent.
Viber
- Long press the message → Delete for Everyone.
- Works within 3 hours.
- Recipient sees “Message was deleted.”
Signal
- Long press the message → Delete icon → Delete for Everyone.
- Works within 24 hours.
- No notification sent.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Mistakes
- Double-check recipients and content before sending.
- Use apps with unsend features for sensitive conversations.
- Clarify mistakes quickly with a follow-up call or message.
- Use delayed sending apps like ChompSMS or Textra to allow cancellation before delivery.
Conclusion
On Android, SMS and MMS cannot be unsent once delivered. However, modern messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, and Messenger provide unsend features with varying time limits. If you often need the ability to retract messages, consider using these apps instead of traditional SMS.
Taking precautions—like reviewing messages before sending or using apps with delayed sending—can help you avoid those awkward “oops” moments.
FAQs About Unsending Texts on Android
- Can I unsend a text on Samsung Messages? No, SMS and MMS cannot be unsent once delivered.
- Does Google Messages allow unsending? Not yet, but Google is testing a “Delete for Everyone” feature for RCS chats.
- Which apps let me unsend messages? WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, Viber, Signal, and Snapchat all support unsending.
- Can I stop a text before it sends? Yes, by quickly enabling Airplane Mode or using Huawei’s recall feature.
- Is unsending completely private? Not always—many apps notify the recipient when a message is deleted.