What happens if imessage doesnt work

From our other article on enabling iMessage , the differences between an iMessage and SMS text message are as follows:. The problem is likely on their end. Like most technological services, iMessage sometimes goes down.

Open Settings and select General. Tap Software Update. This seems like an odd solution but it has worked for some users in the Apple support threads. Then open iMessages, swipe left on each message thread, and tap Delete. Make sure you save anything you want to first; the messages deleted will be gone forever unless you restore your iPhone from an iCloud backup with saved iMessages.

Before you do this, make sure you know your Wi-Fi passwords. Find the section entitled Start New Conversations From and make sure that there is a checkmark next to it. If there is no checkmark next to it, tap on it with your finger to enable iMessage. Since iMessage only works with data and WiFi, your device needs to be connected to the Internet for iMessage to be used. Check your connection by swiping up from the bottom of the screen. If the WiFi connection button the second button from the left along the top row is blue, your WiFi is connected.

If it is turned off, press the button to turn it on. If it won't go on and your Safari browser will not load, you have no connection, which guarantees that iMessage will not work on your device.

Sometimes, WiFi is the problem. If you're linked to a weak WiFi connection, iMessage might not work. Turn WiFi off and try resending your iMessage using just your data. If your Internet connection isn't causing problems, try signing out and back into your Apple ID. Once you are signed back in, send a message again to a contact with an Apple device. If your message comes up blue, iMessage is working. If your iOS is not updated, this can cause iMessage to malfunction. Apple regularly puts out updates for iMessage, so having the most current version of iOS installed on your device can be crucial.

Check for updates by going to Settings, then General, then Software Update. If you're still having problems, try resetting your device's network settings back to factory default. Before you begin, have a list of your WiFi passwords at the ready since resetting to factory defaults will wipe all saved WiFi networks from your device.

To do a network settings reset, go to Settings, General, then Reset. Then click Resend next to the email address that you want to verify. Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement.

Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information. When activating iMessage or FaceTime, you might see one of these messages: Waiting for activation Activation unsuccessful An error occurred during activation Could not sign in, please check your network connection Unable to contact the iMessage server.

Try again. Depending on your carrier, you might be charged for this SMS. Still not activated after a day?