Did Messages get removed from Google Takeout?

As of early 2024, the ability to download SMS/MMS messages via Google Takeout has undergone changes, leading to some confusion. While there was a period in early 2024 (specifically March) when the option was temporarily unavailable due to a bug, it has since been restored. However, the functionality is not the same as it once was.

Here's a breakdown of the current situation:

• SMS/MMS Data Availability: You can still (as of April 2024) export traditional SMS and MMS messages. This option is typically found under "SMS messages" within the "Other data from Google services" section of Google Takeout, rather than a standalone "Messages" entry at the top level.
• RCS Messages Not Included: Critically, Rich Communication Services (RCS) chat data (the 'chat-like' experience in Google Messages) is not included in Takeout exports. RCS chats are stored locally on the device, not backed up to Google in a way that Takeout can access. Consequently, if your expectation is to export your full, modern Google Messages chat history, you will be disappointed.
• What Takeout Provides (SMS messages): The export will generate a ZIP file containing a messages.xml or messages.json file. This file includes your traditional SMS and MMS history that has been synced to your Google account via the Android Messages app. It's important to remember that this export will only contain data if you have "Back up to Google Drive" enabled for Messages on your Android device.
• Why it Appears Missing: The main reasons users might think messages have been removed are:
  • Renamed and Relocated Category: The export option was moved from a top-level "Messages" entry to the "SMS messages" option under "Other data from Google services."
  • Lack of RCS Export: The absence of RCS data causes users to perceive the export as incomplete or missing.
  • Temporary Outage: A brief bug in early 2024 caused the "SMS messages" checkbox to disappear for a few weeks, which has since been resolved.
• How to Export Now:
  1. Go to Google Takeout and sign in with the relevant Google account.
  2. Scroll down to the "Other data from Google services" section.
  3. Check the box next to "SMS messages" (you can deselect other options if you only want messages).
  4. Click "Next step," choose your desired delivery method and export frequency, then click "Create export."
  5. Once the export is ready, download the ZIP file. The messages.xml or messages.json file inside can be viewed with a text editor, spreadsheet software, or specialized SMS viewer tools.
• Important Considerations:
  • The export contains only traditional SMS/MMS, not RCS chats, stickers, or media from RCS conversations.
  • The export relies on your device's "Back up to Google Drive" setting for Messages; if disabled, the export will be empty.
  • Google retains synced SMS data as long as the "Messages backup" option is enabled in your Android device's Settings (Settings > Google > Backup).
  • The export file contains sensitive personal data (phone numbers, message content) in clear text and should be treated with appropriate security and privacy measures.

While Google Takeout still offers an option for SMS/MMS, it's crucial to understand its limitations regarding RCS data. For comprehensive backup of all message types, especially RCS, users may need to explore device-specific backup solutions or cautious use of reputable third-party tools, recognizing their inherent limitations and security risks.