Is iMessage not working? Here's how to fix it on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Troubleshooting iMessage Issues on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Experiencing problems with iMessage? This guide offers solutions for common issues, helping you fix your messaging app on Apple devices. Whether messages aren't appearing, are out of order, or iMessage isn't working at all, we'll help you regain seamless communication.

For Mac users experiencing Messages syncing problems, see: How to fix Messages syncing on a Mac

Why Isn't iMessage Working?

iMessage malfunctions can stem from Apple's servers, the Messages app itself, or incorrect settings. Let's tackle nine common troubleshooting steps:

1. Check iMessage Server Status

First, confirm iMessage isn't experiencing a widespread outage. Check Apple's System Status page (U.S. link / U.K. link) for service disruptions. Down Detector (U.S. link / U.K. link) offers additional outage reports. Social media can also reveal widespread issues.

The Solution:

If iMessage is down, revert to standard text messaging (green bubbles instead of blue). If this fails, consult our guide on sending texts when iMessages aren't working. You can usually force a message to send as a text message.

2. Verify Connection and Data

iMessage requires a data connection (3G or higher cellular or Wi-Fi). Check your internet access; if it's unavailable, that's the problem. Low data or poor cellular reception can also disrupt iMessage.

The Solution:

• Toggle Airplane Mode on and off.
• Restart your iPhone.
• Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
• Reset network settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings).
• Send as text message if data connection remains problematic.

3. Confirm iMessage is Enabled and Properly Configured

Go to Settings > Messages and ensure iMessage is activated. Address "Waiting for activation" or activation errors using this guide: What to do when iMessage won’t activate on your iPhone. Verify your phone number and email addresses in Send & Receive are correct.

The Solution:

• Ensure your phone number is selected in Start New Conversations From.
• Experiment with sending from only your phone number or email address to isolate the issue.

4. Restart Messages and Your Device

A simple restart often resolves minor glitches. Close the Messages app and reopen it. If that fails, reboot your device.

The Solution:

• Turn iMessage off and on in Settings > Messages.
• Restart your device.
• Sign out and back into your Apple ID.

5. Delete Unnecessary Messages

A cluttered Messages app can slow performance. Delete old messages, especially those with large attachments.

The Solution:

• Swipe left on messages to delete.
• Use the Edit button to delete multiple messages.
• Adjust "Keep Messages" settings (Settings > Messages) to 1 year or 30 days.
• Enable Low-Quality Image Mode (Settings > Messages) to reduce storage usage.

6. Update iOS

Outdated software can contain bugs. Check for and install any available iOS updates (Settings > General > Software Update).

7. Check Network Settings

Reset your network settings to resolve potential conflicts (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings). Consider disabling Wi-Fi Assist (Settings > Cellular Data).

8. Verify Time Zone Settings

Ensure your time zone is set to update automatically (Settings > General > Date & Time).

9. Reset All Settings (Last Resort)

If all else fails, reset all settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset).

10. Contact Apple Support

Persistent issues warrant contacting Apple support.

Specific iMessage Problems

This section addresses specific iMessage problems:

• iMessage Activation Unsuccessful: See What to do when iMessage won’t activate on your iPhone.

• Friend Not Receiving iMessages: Ensure your friend has iMessage enabled on their Apple device. If they've switched to a non-Apple device, they need to deregister from iMessage.

• iMessage Visual Effects Not Working: Ensure both sender and recipient have updated iOS and have Reduce Motion turned off (Settings > General > Accessibility > Reduce Motion).

• Can't Send Group iMessages: A non-Apple user in the group can prevent iMessages. Create a new group message or use WhatsApp.

• Lost or Deleted Messages: See How to retrieve deleted text messages for recovery options.

• Messages Out of Sync Across Devices: Enable iMessages in iCloud or manually verify email addresses in Send & Receive settings on all devices. See How to sync iMessage conversations on iPhone, iPad and Mac.

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