• iMessage is a convenient communication tool for Apple users. If your iMessage is down, check if you’ve disabled send as SMS.
  • To do so, open Settings > Messages. Then, turn on the toggle next to iMessage.
  • Further, you can check your network connection, see if iMessage is down, etc.

Basic Fixes

  • Trigger Airplane Mode: If your mobile data has trouble, it is best to trigger airplane mode. In a few minutes, you can disable the function and send a message.
  • Check network connection: A stable Wi-Fi is necessary to send a message as iMessage. Do a speed test to verify this.
  • Check iMessage service status: Sometimes, Apple’s apps are down. If your iMessage is glitching, check Apple’s server status to see if iMessage is down. Once it is back, your message should go as an iMessage.
  • Check recipient compatibility: To receive an iMessage, the recipient needs an iPhone and a stable internet connection.

Fix 1: Enable iMessage

If you’ve disabled the iMessage service on your phone, messages go as normal messages. You must enable the service from Settings. For that, open the Settings app on your iPhone > scroll to Messages . Then, turn on the toggle for iMessage .

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Note: If the recipient has disabled iMessage on their iPhone, your phone will send messages as normal texts. You must ask the person to enable the function.

Fix 2: Check the Date and Time on iPhone

Incorrect date and time settings may lead to issues with Apple services like iMessage. To set it right, open the Settings app on your iPhone. Then, General > Date and Time . Now, disable the toggle for Set Automatically and set time per your time zone.

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Fix 3: Disable Send iMessage as Text

When the Messages app fails to send an iMessage, it sends the same as standard SMS or MMS. If you are on a tight SMS plan, disable the option from Settings. Open the Settings app and scroll down to select Messages . Turn off the toggle for Send as SMS .

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Fix 4: Authenticate Your Apple Account Again

Did you recently change your Apple account password? Due to an account authentication error, iOS may deactivate services like iMessage on your iPhone. You need to sign out from your Apple account and sign back in using updated details.

To log out, open the Settings apps on your iPhone > go to your profile > scroll down and tap Sign Out .

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Now, log back in and try sending iMessage again.

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