How to Fix iPhone Messages That Fail to Send

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Verify Network Connectivity

   Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner. Toggle Airplane Mode on, wait five seconds, then toggle it off to refresh your cellular and Wi-Fi radios.

   Note: Ensure your cellular signal indicator shows at least two bars.
2. 1 min

   Toggle iMessage Settings

   Navigate to Settings > Messages. Tap the switch next to iMessage to turn it off, wait for the status to clear, then toggle it back on. Wait for the 'Waiting for activation' text to disappear.

3. 1 min

   Enable Send as SMS

   Within Settings > Messages, ensure the 'Send as SMS' toggle is enabled. This allows your iPhone to send messages via your carrier when iMessage is unavailable.

   Note: Standard carrier messaging rates may apply for SMS.
4. 1 min

   Perform a Force Restart

   Press and quickly release Volume Up, press and quickly release Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button. Release only when the Apple logo appears on the screen.

   Note: A force restart clears temporary cache files that may obstruct the messaging daemon.
5. 2 min

   Reset Network Settings

   Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset. Select Reset Network Settings and enter your passcode to confirm. This removes saved Wi-Fi networks and resets cellular configurations to factory defaults.

   Note: This will not delete personal data, but you will need to re-join known Wi-Fi networks.