9 Practical Ways to Fix iPhone Not Sending iMessages/Text Messages

"Ever since I updated my iPhone 13 Pro to iOS 17, I have had issues with iMessage. Every morning, I need to restart my iPhone before I can send an iMessage; if I don't do that, the message is stuck."

- from Apple Community

If you're dealing with the issue of iPhone not sending iMessages/text messages, you're not alone. Many iPhone users experience failed message delivery, spinning send icons, or repeated "Not Delivered" errors when trying to send messages. This problem can disrupt daily communication and often happens without any clear warning.

The good news is that this issue is usually caused by network problems, incorrect settings, or iOS system errors—most of which can be fixed without replacing your device. In this guide, we'll walk you through the main reasons why text messages/iMessages is not sending, followed by step-by-step solutions, from simple fixes to advanced system repair options.

Part 1. Why Is My iPhone Not Sending iMessages/Text Messages?

Why are my iMessages/text messages failing to send? Here are the most common situations:

• Unstable Network Connection: iMessage relies on Wi-Fi or cellular data. If the current network signal is weak or unstable, it may cause sending failures.
• iMessage Service Not Properly Enabled or Activation Failed: If iMessage is turned off, activation is abnormal, or Apple servers experience temporary issues, it can affect message sending.
• Apple ID or iMessage Account Settings Issue: If the Apple ID is not logged in, verification fails, or the "Send & Receive" settings are incorrect, it can prevent iMessages from being sent.
• Recipient's Device Issues: If the recipient is not using an iPhone, iMessage is not enabled, or the device is offline, the message may not be sent via iMessage.
• iOS System Bugs or Outdated System Version: System errors, abnormal cache, or an outdated iOS version can also cause iMessage functionality to fail.

Part 2. How to Fix Text Messages/iMessage Not Sending?

If your iPhone is not sending iMessages after the update, we will introduce various effective solutions in order, from simple to more advanced.

Fix 1. Check Network Connection

Since iMessage requires an internet connection, network issues are the most common reason behind an iPhone not sending iMessages/text messages. Even SMS may fail if carrier connectivity is unstable.

Here are the steps:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "Wi-Fi" and connect to a stable network.

Step 2. Or open "Settings" > "Cellular" and make sure Cellular Data is enabled.

Step 3. Turn Airplane Mode on, wait 10 seconds, then turn it off.

Step 4. If the issue persists, reset network settings: "Settings" > "General" > "Transfer or Reset iPhone" > Tap "Reset" > "Reset Network Settings".

Note: This will not erase data, but Wi-Fi passwords and VPNs will be removed.

Fix 2. Ensure iMessage Is Enabled

If iMessage is turned off, activation fails, or activation is interrupted, it can prevent messages from being sent properly, especially after changing the SIM card or updating the system.

Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "Messages".

Step 2. Make sure the "iMessage" toggle is turned on. (iMessage not working?)

Step 3. If it is already on, try turning off iMessage, waiting for 30 seconds, and then turning it back on.

Fix 3. Check iMessage Settings

Even if iMessage is enabled, incorrect sending address settings can still prevent your iPhone from sending iMessages.

To check iMessage settings, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "Messages" > "Send & Receive".

Step 2. Make sure your Apple ID is correctly logged in.

Step 3. Check the correct phone number and email address.

Step 4. If there's an issue, try signing out of your Apple ID and then signing back in.

Fix 4. Check Apple Servers

Sometimes the issue of iMessage not sending may not be with your device, but rather a temporary interruption in Apple's iMessage servers. In this case, no local actions can immediately fix the problem.

Open Apple's official system status page and check the iMessage service. If the status shows as abnormal or under maintenance, you will have to wait for Apple to restore the service.

Fix 5. Restart the iPhone

Temporary system glitches or background process errors can cause iMessage and SMS failures. Restarting the device refreshes system services.

For iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, or newer models:

• Press and hold the "Volume" button and the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Slide the slider to turn off your device, then wait around 30 seconds for it to power down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 6, 7, 8, or SE (2nd/3rd generation):

• Press and hold the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Slide the slider to turn off your device, then wait about 30 seconds for it to shut down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier models:

• Press and hold the "Top" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Slide the slider to turn off your device, then wait around 30 seconds for it to power down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Top" button until the Apple logo appears.

Fix 6. Update iOS System

Outdated iOS versions may contain bugs that affect messaging services. Apple frequently fixes iMessage issues through software updates.

To update iOS, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update". (iPhone won't update?)

Step 2. Check if there is an available iOS update.

Step 3. Connect to Wi-Fi and complete the update.

Fix 7. Using iOS System Recovery

If none of the basic fixes work, the issue may be caused by corrupted iOS system files. In this case, manual troubleshooting often fails. iOS System Recovery is designed to fix system-level issues without deleting your data, including cases where your iPhone is not sending iMessages/text messages.

Key features of iOS System Recovery:

• Fix iMessage not sending in just a few clicks without data loss.
• Resolve various iOS system issues, including iPhone being stuck in recovery mode, Apple logo, boot loop, headphone mode, the Hello screen, or unable to restore, and more.
• Easily upgrade or downgrade iOS versions for free.
• 100% success rate with no data loss.
• Support the latest iPhone 17 and iOS 18/26.

Here is how to fix iMessage not sending using iOS System Recovery:

01Download and install the tool on your computer. Once the download is complete, open the program and select "iOS System Recovery".

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

02Connect your iPhone to the computer and trust the connection. Then, click "Start" and follow the on-screen instructions to enter recovery mode.

03Select "Standard Mode" and click "Confirm" to continue. The tool will begin downloading the necessary iOS firmware.

04Once the firmware is downloaded, click "Repair" to start the repair process. The tool will fix your device and resolve issues such as iPhone not sending iMessages.

Fix 8. Restore iPhone to Factory Settings

If you have tried all of the above methods but they don't work for your iPhone, you might need to restore your iPhone to factory settings to get it back to normal. Also, please back up your iPhone before the process in case of data loss.

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Reset" > "Erase All Contents and Settings" on your iPhone.

Step 2. Tap the "Erase iPhone" option to confirm your action and start to hard reset your iPhone to factory settings.

Fix 9. Contact Apple Support

When all software solutions fail, the issue may be related to the SIM card, account restrictions, or hardware problems. It's recommended to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store/Authorized Service Provider for further diagnostics.

Wrapping Up

In most cases, the problem of iPhone not sending iMessages/text messages can be resolved by checking network settings, correcting iMessage configuration, or updating iOS. However, when the issue is caused by deeper system corruption, basic fixes may not work.

Compared to a factory reset, iOS System Recovery offers a safer and more efficient solution, allowing you to fix iOS issues without losing data. It's an ideal option for users who want a reliable fix without risking personal information.

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