How to delete videos/messages/texts on an iPad
There are several different ways to delete photos and videos from text messages, along with the option of deleting entire conversations. These methods work on an iPad running iOS 26. To learn how to update your device to iOS 26, visit this article here.
Method 1: Delete Specific Videos in a Conversation
- Open the Messages app.
- Open the conversation containing the video.
- Touch and hold the video bubble.
- Tap More...
- Select the video(s) you want to delete (a blue checkmark will appear).
- Tap the Trash Can icon (delete) at the bottom left.
- Tap Delete Message to confirm.
Method 2: Bulk Delete Videos (From a Specific Contact)
- Open the Messages app and a conversation.
- Tap the contact name or group icon at the top.
- Scroll down to the Photos section and tap See All.
- Tap Select in the top right corner.
- Tap the video(s) you want to remove.
- Tap Delete in the bottom left corner.
Method 3: Delete Entire Conversation
- In the main Messages list, swipe left on the conversation.
- Tap the Trash Can icon.
Important: Videos deleted this way may remain in a "Recently Deleted" folder for 30 days.
To remove them immediately and permanently:
- Tap Edit (or the filters button) in the top left of the main conversation list.
- Tap Show Recently Deleted.
- Select the conversations/videos and tap Delete.
Tip: To automatically manage space, go to Settings > Messages > Keep Messages and set it to 30 days or 1 year, which will automatically delete old messages and their attachments!
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