So, you've added a sticker to your iMessage, and now you're regretting it? Don't worry, removing unwanted stickers is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the simple steps to delete a sticker in iMessage on both iPhone and iPad. We'll cover different scenarios, ensuring you can clean up your messages effectively.
Deleting Stickers Before Sending
This is the easiest scenario. If you've added a sticker but haven't yet sent the message, removing it is a breeze:
- Locate the Sticker: Find the sticker you wish to remove within your iMessage.
- Tap and Hold: Tap and hold the sticker until it becomes slightly detached.
- Drag to Delete: Drag the sticker to the "trash can" icon that appears. It might look like a small circle with a cross inside. Let go, and the sticker is gone!
Deleting Stickers After Sending (on iPhone/iPad)
Unfortunately, once you send a message containing a sticker, you can't directly delete just the sticker. You'll need to delete the entire message:
- Locate the Message: Find the iMessage containing the sticker you want to remove.
- Tap and Hold: Tap and hold the message bubble containing the sticker.
- Select "More": A menu will appear; tap "More".
- Select the Message: Check the box next to the message bubble you want to remove. You can select multiple messages at once if needed.
- Tap the Trash Can: A trash can icon will appear at the bottom. Tap it to delete the selected message(s).
Important Considerations:
- Recipient's View: Once a message is sent, the recipient will still see it, even if you delete it from your end. Deleting the message from your side only removes it from your message thread.
- Message Recovery: Deleted messages might be recoverable depending on your device settings and backups.
Different Sticker Types and Deletion
The methods above apply to most sticker types in iMessage. However, depending on how the sticker was added (e.g., from a third-party app, a Memoji sticker, etc.), the exact visual cues might vary slightly. However, the underlying principle of tapping, holding and dragging to the trash remains consistent before sending. After sending, the same message deletion procedure is always applicable.
Troubleshooting Tips
- App Glitches: If you are experiencing issues, try restarting your iPhone or iPad. This often resolves minor software glitches.
- iMessage Update: Ensure your iMessage app is updated to the latest version. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
- Contact Apple Support: If problems persist, contact Apple Support for further assistance.
This comprehensive guide should help you effortlessly delete stickers from your iMessages. Remember, deleting a sticker before sending is always the easiest option. But if you need to remove it after sending, deleting the entire message is the only solution. Happy messaging!