[Bug] Restored messages disappear soon after restoring Google Messages app data

[e-t-l]

Guidelines

• I have read the FAQ and it doesn't cover the issue.
• I have searched the issue tracker for open and closed issues that are similar to the feature request I want to file, without success.
• I'm on the latest version.
• I'm not using a test build (alpha/beta/release-candidate).
• This issue contains only one bug.

Describe the bug

1. Use NeoBackup to back up all app data for the Google Messages app*
2. Factory reset the device, reinstall NeoBackup and Google Messages
3. Restore the Google Messages app backup
4. Open Google Messages app, observe old messages have been restored!
5. Watch in horror as the old messages disappear after several minutes

*At the time, I was not aware of how to properly back up phone and message data with NeoBackup, so the only data I have backed up is the app data for Google Messages.

Expected Behavior

I assume the restored messages get purged after several minutes because they are present only in the Google Messages app data files, and not in the phone's system Message Storage. Is there any way to transfer the messages from the app data to the system storage so they won't be automatically erased?

Neo Backup's Version

8.3.12

Installation Source

Official F-Droid repo

Last Known Working Version

No response

Relevant information

• Device: Google Pixel 8 Pro
• Android Version: 16
• ROM: GOS