Whether you want to share a funny message, pass along important info, or redirect a conversation, your iPhone makes it easy to forward text messages to someone else. Instead of copying and pasting, you can use the built-in message forwarding feature in the Messages app to quickly resend a message to any contact or phone number.
This guide will walk you through how to forward text messages (SMS or iMessage) from your iPhone, step-by-step. You’ll also learn how to forward multiple messages at once, what limitations exist, and tips to avoid accidentally sharing sensitive information.
📲 What Is Message Forwarding on iPhone?
Message forwarding allows you to re-send a text message—either from SMS (green bubble) or iMessage (blue bubble)—to another person or group.
Unlike email forwarding, forwarded text messages do not include the sender’s name or timestamp. They appear as if you typed or sent the message unless you add context.
✅ How to Forward a Single Message on iPhone
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone.
- Tap the conversation containing the message you want to forward.
- Tap and hold the specific message bubble.
- In the pop-up menu, tap “More…”.
- A checkmark circle will appear next to the selected message.
- Tap the forward arrow (➤) in the bottom-right corner.
- A new message window opens with the selected message pre-filled.
- Enter the recipient’s name, phone number, or email in the “To:” field.
- Tap Send (blue or green arrow).
That’s it! The message is now forwarded.
➕ How to Forward Multiple Messages at Once
You can also forward multiple texts or images together:
- Open Messages > Select the conversation.
- Tap and hold one message > tap “More…”.
- Tap the check circles beside any additional messages you want to forward.
- Tap the forward arrow in the bottom-right.
- Enter the recipient’s info > Tap Send.
📝 All selected messages will appear in one forwarded thread.
🔁 Forwarding to Contacts Outside iPhone (SMS)
You can forward messages to:
- Any iPhone user (via iMessage)
- Android users (via SMS/MMS)
- Email addresses (if supported by your carrier)
If you send it to a non-Apple contact, your iPhone will send it as green SMS or MMS, using your text plan or data.
🧠 What Happens to the Original Message?
Nothing changes in the original conversation:
- The message remains in the thread.
- The original sender is not notified that you forwarded it.
- The recipient sees the forwarded message as a new message from you.
📷 Can You Forward Media or Attachments?
Yes. Forwarding supports:
- Text
- Photos or GIFs
- Voice memos
- Links
- Location pins
Just select those message types using the “More…” option before tapping the forward arrow.
🛑 Stickers, reactions, or effects (like confetti) may not forward exactly as they appear.
🔧 Tips for Better Message Forwarding
Add Context to Avoid Confusion
Forwarded messages don’t say “Forwarded from [Name].” Add a quick note above or below the message to explain.
Example:
“Here’s the address she sent me:”
[Forwarded message]
Avoid Forwarding Sensitive Info
Messages may contain personal data (names, phone numbers, photos). Always double-check before forwarding.
Use Copy-Paste for Editing
If you need to edit part of the message, tap and hold > Copy, then paste it into a new message to customize it before sending.
Forward Messages to Yourself
You can send messages to your own number or Apple ID to:
- Save important info
- Transfer text to another device
- Use messages for reminders
🔄 Forwarding on Other Apple Devices (Mac, iPad)
If you use Messages in iCloud, message forwarding works across all Apple devices.
On Mac:
- Open the Messages app.
- Right-click a message > Click “Forward”.
- Type recipient > Press Enter.
On iPad:
Same as on iPhone—tap and hold > “More…” > Forward arrow.
🚫 Limitations of Text Forwarding
| Limitation | Description |
| No auto-forwarding | Messages can’t be auto-forwarded like email |
| No indication of source | Recipients won’t know it was forwarded |
| No attachments from older iOS | Older versions may not support all media types |
| Group chat links not preserved | Only message content is forwarded |
📋 Summary Table
| Task | Action |
| Forward a single message | Tap and hold > “More…” > Forward arrow |
| Forward multiple messages | Select multiple checkboxes > Forward |
| Forward to Android or email | Enter number/email in “To” field |
| Forward media | Works with photos, voice, location |
| Add context | Manually type above the message |
| Stop mid-forward | Tap “Cancel” and discard message |
✅ Final Thoughts
Forwarding text messages on your iPhone is a fast and convenient way to share information, relay messages, or save content for later use. Apple makes it easy to forward single messages or entire sets with just a few taps. While forwarded messages don’t carry a “Forwarded” label like emails, you can always add context to clarify.
Whether you’re sharing directions, jokes, or important work details, message forwarding is a simple tool that saves time and keeps communication flowing smoothly.
Meta Description:
Learn how to forward a text message or iMessage on your iPhone. Step-by-step guide to forwarding messages, photos, and multiple items, with tips for adding context and avoiding confusion.
