iOS · iPhone & iPad

How To Fix iPhone Unable To Send Messages in 2023

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Answer

This problem is usually related to your network connection, app version or it’s related to your device settings. First, you should ensure that you’re using a reliable network connection. Switch your connection from cellular to WiFi or vice versa. You can also use a speed testing site or application, such as Speedtest. Here, preview your average upload and download speed to the nearest server.

Switch Internet Connection

This problem is usually related to your network connection, app version or it’s related to your device settings. First, you should ensure that you’re using a reliable network connection. Switch your connection from cellular to WiFi or vice versa.

Control Centre > Toggle WiFi
Control Centre > Toggle WiFi

Test Internet Connection

You can also use a speed testing site or application, such as Speedtest. Here, preview your average upload and download speed to the nearest server.

Test Average Up- & Download Speed
Test Average Up- & Download Speed

Set Date & Time Automatically

If your internet speed seems fine, then open up your iPhone settings. In the General section of your settings, tap on Date & Time. Ensure that the Set Automatically option is enabled and that you use the correct time zone.

iPhone Settings > General > Date & Time
iPhone Settings > General > Date & Time

iOS Software Update

Back in your general settings, tap on Software Update. Download the latest update in case there is one available to you. You will be prompted to restart your iPhone, which will restart all processes and can also help fix the message problem you are facing.

Verify your Apple ID Email
Verify your Apple ID Email

Sign Out & Into your Apple ID Account

Sign out and back into your Apple ID account if you cannot send iMessage via the Messages application. This will ensure that the problem is unrelated to the Apple ID servers.

Toggle iMessage Off and On

While in your settings, navigate to the Messages section. Here, disable the iMessage option, wait for a couple of seconds, and enable it again.

Remove App
Remove App

Reset Network Settings

If the problem persists, try resetting your network settings. This should be done as a last resort, as it will reset your WiFi, Bluetooth, and cellular settings back to default to fix the problem. In your iPhone settings, navigate back to the General section, and under Transfer or Reset iPhone, tap on Reset and then Reset Network Settings. Your iOS device will restart, and the problem when sending messages will be fixed.

iPhone Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset Network Settings
iPhone Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset Network Settings

Video walkthrough

If it does not work

  • What happens when I reset my network settings?. Resetting your network settings will erase all your network settings, including Wi-Fi networks, passwords, and VPN settings. It will restore your iPhone to its default network settings.
  • Will updating my iOS erase my data?. No, updating your iOS will not erase your data. However, it's always a good idea to back up your data before updating your iOS, just in case.
  • Can I fix the issue of iPhone not sending messages on my own?. Yes, by following the steps in the guide on How To Fix iPhone Unable To Send Messages in 2023, you should be able to fix the issue on your own. However, if the issue persists, it's best to contact Apple Support for further assistance.