Here are some methods to fix the issue of “iMessage Needs to be Enabled to send this message” pop-up, while trying to send an iMessage on iPhone.
iMessage Needs to Be Enabled to Send This Message
While iMessage is a very convenient messaging service from Apple, it is also known at times to suffer from glitches and problems.
Two examples of this are iMessage Waiting for Activation error that still bothers users and the recent “iMessage Needs to be Enabled to send this message” pop-up on iPhone.
In general, “iMessage needs to be enabled” error message is more commonly reported following on iOS update, but it can also occur at any time.
In a typical case, iPhone displays “Cannot Send Message, iMessage needs to be enabled to send this message” pop-up, instead of displaying the usual “Message sent” notification.
Hopefully, one of the following methods should help you fix this problem on your iPhone.
1. Check iMessage Server Status
Apple servers can become temporarily unavailable and cause iMessage problems.
1. Using your iPhone or computer, visit Apple’s System Status page.
2. On the System Status page, take a look at iMessage entry and make sure that the dot next to iMessage is green.
In case of a problem, you will see an error message next to iMessage entry and the dot next to iMessage will not be green.
2. Reboot iPhone
The simple act of Rebooting your device can fix problems by terminating stuck programs and processes on your iPhone.
1. Press/Hold the Power button on your iPhone, until you see “Slide to power off” option appearing on the screen of your iPhone.
2. Move the Slider to the right to Power OFF your iPhone
3. Wait for about 50 seconds and press the Power Button to restart your iPhone.
After the Restart, see if you are able to send iMessages from your iPhone.
3. Enable/Disable iMessage
Follow the steps below to enable and disable iMessage service on your iPhone.
1. Go to Settings > Messages > move the toggle next to iMessage to OFF position.
2. Restart your iPhone and Enable iMessage on your iPhone.
4. Enable SMS and MMS Messaging
iPhone makes use of carrier supported SMS/MMS messaging to send messages to Email Addresses and to those who are not using Apple Devices.
1. Open Settings > scroll down and tap on Messages.
2. On the Messages screen, make sure that the option for MMS Messaging and Send as SMS is enabled.
After this your iPhone will be able to use both Apple supported iMessaging system and also carrier supported SMS/MMS messaging system.
5. Delete Stuck iMessage Conversation
If you are unable to send an iMessage and see “iMessage needs to be enabled” pop-up, simply delete the stuck iMessage conversation and start a new one.
In order to fix this issue, delete the last iMessage that you had sent or received prior to the start of this problem.
6. Check Send/Receive Settings
One common reason for iMessage problems on iPhone is due to incorrect Send/Receive settings.
1. Open Settings > tap on Messages.
2. On the Messages screen, scroll down and tap on Send & Receive.
3. On the next screen, make sure that your Apple ID Email Address is listed under “You Can Be Reached By iMessage At” section.
iMessage makes use of Apple ID to send and Receive iMessages. Hence, it is necessary that your Apple ID is listed under “You Can be Reached By iMessage At” section in addition to your Phone Number.
7. Reset Network Settings
This will Erase all the Network settings on your iPhone and set them back to Factory Default Settings.
1. Go to Settings > General > scroll down and tap on Reset.
2. On the Reset screen, tap on Reset Network Settings.
3. On the pop-up, tap on Reset Network Settings to confirm.
After this, connect your iPhone to WiFi Network and see if you are able to send iMessages.