If your iPhone is not sending text messages, the problem could be due to multiple reasons as discussed below in this guide.
Why is iPhone Not Sending Text Messages?
When you send Messages from iPhone, the Messages are delivered in the form of free iMessges to Apple device users and paid SMS Text Messages to Android Phone users.
In most cases, the problem of iPhone not sending Text Messages is related to a problem with your Service provider’s network or Cellular connectivity issues on your own device.
In addition to above, the problem of iPhone not sending Text Messages can also be caused due to Incorrect Messages App Settings, Network related issues and other reasons.
1. Rule Out Cellular Service Issues
Before trying out other troubleshooting tips, make sure that the Cellular Signal strength on your device is at a reasonable level (not at 1 or 2 bar/dot).
Also, make sure that your Mobile Service Plan is active and you are still within the limits of your Texting plan.
2. Check Recipients Phone Number
If you are trying to send a Text Message to recently added Contact, make sure that your Contact’s Phone Number and Area code is correct.
In case of an old Contact, make sure that the Phone Number is still valid and your Contact has not changed his/her Phone Number.
In rare cases, the problem can also be caused due to your Phone Number being accidentally blocked by your Contact.
3. Enable SMS Messaging
iPhone makes use of your mobile service provider’s network to send messages to people who are not using Apple Devices.
Hence, make sure that SMS Messaging system is enabled on your device.
Go to Settings > Messages > scroll down and move the toggle next to SMS Messaging to ON position.
4. Switch ON MMS Messaging
Similarly, MMS Messaging system also needs to be enabled on your device.
Go to Settings > Messages > On the next screen, make sure both MMS Messaging and Group Messaging are enabled.
After this your iPhone will be able to send Messages using the carrier supported SMS/MMS messaging system.
5. Restart iPhone
The simple act of restarting a device is known to fix minor glitches and help in fixing problems.
1. Go to Settings > General > scroll down to bottom and tap on Shut Down.
2. Use the Slider on the next screen to switch OFF iPhone.
3. Allow iPhone to Shut Down completely > Wait for 60 seconds and restart iPhone.
6. Check Send/Receive Settings
The Messages App makes use of your Apple ID to send and receive iMessages. Hence, make sure that your Apple ID is listed under “You Can be Reached By iMessage At” section.
1. Go to Settings > Messages > scroll down and tap on Send & Receive.
2. On the next screen, make sure that both your phone number and Apple ID Email Address are listed.
3. If your Apple ID is not listed, tap on Use your Apple ID for iMessage.
4. Follow the instructions to add your Apple ID to iMessage.
7. Disable LTE
Having LTE Service enabled for Text messages is also known to cause problems with the Messages App.
1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data.
2. On the next screen, uncheck the LTE Option.
3. Wait for 60 seconds > Restart your iPhone and see if you are able to send Text Messages.
8. Install Updates
Follow the steps below to install iOS and carrier updates on your iPhone
1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
2. On the next screen, tap on Download and Install (in case an update is available).
9. Reset Network Settings
This method can help, if the problem is due to an unknown change, glitch or an error in Network Settings.
1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
2. On the pop-up, select Reset Network Settings option.
3. When prompted, enter your Lock Screen Password.
4. On the confirmation pop-up, tap on Reset Network Settings to confirm.
After iPhone restarts, reconnect your device to Network and see if you are able to send Text Messages.
10. Delete Messages or Start New Conversation
Sometimes, the problem is due to a struck Message thread preventing the Messages App from functioning properly on iPhone.
Users have reported fixing Message problems on iPhone by deleting the Last Message that was received prior to the start of the problem and also by deleting multiple old Messages.
If the problem persists, you can try starting a New Conversation and see if this helps in fixing the problem.