When your iPhone’s iMessages fail to send or show the dreaded “Not Delivered” message, it can be frustrating—especially when you’re trying to reach someone urgently. Apple’s iMessage system usually works flawlessly over Wi-Fi or cellular data, but when things go wrong, it’s essential to understand why iMessages aren’t sending or delivering, and how to fix it.
This detailed guide covers common reasons for iMessage delivery issues, troubleshooting tips, and how to ensure your iMessages get through reliably.
💬 What Is iMessage?
iMessage is Apple’s messaging service that allows users to send:
- Texts
- Photos
- Videos
- Documents
- Stickers and reactions
between Apple devices using Wi-Fi or mobile data. iMessages are displayed in blue bubbles, while regular SMS/MMS messages appear in green bubbles.
🚫 Common Reasons Why iMessages Are Not Being Delivered or Sent
Here are the most frequent causes:
📶 No Internet Connection (Wi-Fi or Cellular)
iMessage requires an active internet connection—either Wi-Fi or mobile data. If your connection is weak or unavailable, your message won’t send.
📴 Recipient’s Device Is Offline
If the person you’re messaging is:
- Not connected to the internet
- Has iMessage disabled
- Their iPhone is off or in airplane mode
Your message may remain in “Sending…” or say Not Delivered.
⚙️ iMessage Is Disabled
If iMessage is turned off on your device, messages won’t be sent via iMessage and may attempt SMS instead (if enabled).
🔁 iMessage Activation Issues
New devices or numbers can experience activation delays or errors. Your device may not be properly registered with Apple’s iMessage servers.
📱 Recipient Switched from iPhone to Android
If someone recently moved from iPhone to Android but didn’t deregister iMessage, your messages may try (and fail) to deliver via iMessage instead of SMS.
🧱 Network Glitch or Software Bug
Sometimes, the Messages app or your iPhone may get stuck due to a temporary software glitch.
🛠️ How to Fix iMessages Not Sending or Delivering
✅ Check Your Internet Connection
- Make sure Wi-Fi or mobile data is turned on and working.
- Open Safari or another app to test internet access.
- If you’re in a low-signal area, switch between Wi-Fi and cellular.
✅ Restart Your iPhone
A quick reboot can resolve many temporary iMessage issues.
Steps:
- Hold the Side button + Volume button, then slide to power off.
- Wait a few seconds, then turn your iPhone back on.
✅ Toggle iMessage Off and On Again
Resetting iMessage can fix registration and connectivity issues.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Messages.
- Turn iMessage OFF.
- Wait 30 seconds, then turn it back ON.
✅ Send as SMS Instead
If iMessage fails, you can send the message as a regular SMS.
Steps:
- Tap the red exclamation mark (!) next to “Not Delivered.”
- Tap “Send as Text Message.”
SMS will be sent in green bubbles and may incur charges depending on your carrier plan.
🔧 Advanced Fixes for Persistent iMessage Failures
📤 Reset Network Settings
If connectivity is the issue, resetting your network settings can help.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode to confirm.
⚠️ This will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings, but not your data.
📱 Sign Out and Back into Apple ID
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
- Tap your Apple ID > Sign Out.
- Wait a moment, then sign back in.
🗂️ Check iMessage Send & Receive Settings
Make sure your phone number and Apple ID email are selected for sending and receiving iMessages.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
- Check that your phone number and Apple ID are listed and selected.
🧩 Update iOS
Ensure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version, which may include iMessage bug fixes.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install if an update is available.
🧑💻 Contact Apple Support
If nothing else works, your Apple ID or device may have an issue that requires advanced support.
- Visit https://support.apple.com
- Or use the Apple Support app for chat or scheduling a Genius Bar visit.
📋 Summary Table
| Problem | Solution |
| No internet | Reconnect to Wi-Fi or mobile data |
| iMessage off | Go to Settings > Messages > Turn on iMessage |
| Activation error | Restart phone and toggle iMessage |
| Recipient offline | Wait or send as SMS |
| Switched from iPhone | Ask recipient to deregister iMessage |
| Bug or glitch | Restart iPhone or reset network settings |
| App not synced | Sign out and back into Apple ID |
| Outdated iOS | Update to latest version |
🧠 Pro Tips
- If you often message non-iPhone users, enable “Send as SMS” under Settings > Messages.
- Use Wi-Fi Calling or apps like WhatsApp when data is limited.
- Pin important conversations for easy visibility using long-press on the Messages app.
✅ Final Thoughts
When iMessages aren’t being sent or delivered, the issue is usually tied to internet connectivity, iMessage settings, or a temporary glitch. Thankfully, most problems are easy to fix with a few quick checks and adjustments. Whether it’s toggling iMessage off and back on, updating your network settings, or switching to SMS when needed, this guide gives you all the tools to get your messages moving again.
Meta Description:
Trouble sending or receiving iMessages on iPhone? Learn the top reasons iMessages aren’t delivered and how to fix them with step-by-step instructions and tips.
