iPhone text messages not sending? 9 fixes for Not Delivered
A red exclamation mark means the message failed. The fix depends on whether it was a blue iMessage or a green text.
The fix
9 fixes, in order
- 1
Tap the red exclamation mark and choose Try Again.
- 2
Check signal and data.
SMS needs cellular. iMessage and RCS need data or Wi-Fi.
- 3
Turn on Send as Text Message.
Settings › Apps › Messages.
- 4
Turn on MMS Messaging and RCS Messaging.
Same screen, under Text Messaging.
- 5
Make sure you have not blocked the number.
- 6
Toggle Airplane Mode and restart the iPhone.
- 7
Turn iMessage off and on again.
- 8
Install a carrier settings update.
Settings › General › About.
- 9
Reset network settings.
Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Reset › Reset Network Settings.
Frequently asked questions
Why do texts to Android phones fail?
The iPhone may be trying iMessage to a number that left iPhone. Turn on Send as Text Message and RCS Messaging, or ask them to deregister their number from iMessage.
Why do photos fail but texts send?
Photos need MMS or data. Turn on MMS Messaging in Settings › Apps › Messages and check that cellular data is on.
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