iMessage Not Delivered: 10 Ways to Fix It

Quick Fix

iMessage not delivered? First, check your internet connection. Then go to Settings > Messages and toggle iMessage off, wait 30 seconds, toggle back on. If still failing, try Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. The recipient may also have their phone off or changed devices.

Why Does iMessage Show “Not Delivered”?

iMessage fails to deliver when you lack internet connection, Apple servers are down, the recipient’s device is off or has no signal, they’ve switched to Android, their iMessage is disabled, or they’ve blocked you.

Method 1: Check Internet Connection

iMessage requires data or WiFi.

1. Check WiFi or cellular data is on
2. Try loading a webpage
3. Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
4. Try switching between WiFi and cellular

Method 2: Toggle iMessage Off/On

Reactivating fixes registration issues.

1. Go to Settings > Messages
2. Toggle iMessage off
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Toggle iMessage back on
5. Wait for “Waiting for activation” to complete
6. Try sending message again

Method 3: Check Recipient’s Status

The issue may be on their end.

• Is their phone on and connected to internet?
• Have they switched from iPhone to Android?
• Is their iMessage enabled?
• Try calling them to verify phone works

Method 4: Restart Your iPhone

Restart clears temporary issues.

1. Hold Side button + Volume button
2. Slide to power off
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Turn back on
5. Try sending iMessage

Method 5: Reset Network Settings

Clears all network configurations.

1. Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
2. Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings
3. Enter passcode
4. Confirm reset
5. Reconnect to WiFi
6. Try iMessage again

Method 6: Check Apple System Status

Apple servers may be down.

1. Visit apple.com/support/systemstatus
2. Check iMessage status
3. If down, wait for Apple to fix
4. Usually resolved within hours

Method 7: Send as SMS Instead

Fall back to regular text message.

1. Long-press the failed message
2. Tap Send as Text Message
3. Message sends as green SMS
4. Or: Settings > Messages > Enable Send as SMS

Method 8: Sign Out of Apple ID

Re-authentication fixes account issues.

1. Settings > Messages > Send & Receive
2. Tap your Apple ID
3. Tap Sign Out
4. Restart iPhone
5. Sign back in

Method 9: Check Date and Time

Incorrect time blocks Apple services.

1. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time
2. Enable Set Automatically
3. If already on, toggle off and on
4. Restart and try iMessage

Method 10: Delete and Start New Conversation

Corrupted thread can cause issues.

1. Open Messages
2. Swipe left on the conversation
3. Tap Delete
4. Start new conversation with same contact
5. Try sending message

FAQ

What’s the difference between “Not Delivered” and “Delivered”?

“Delivered” confirms the message reached Apple’s servers and was sent to the recipient’s device. “Not Delivered” means the message never left your phone or couldn’t reach Apple servers.

Does “Not Delivered” mean I’m blocked?

Not necessarily. It usually means no internet connection. However, if messages to one person consistently fail while others work, you might be blocked. Call them to confirm.

Why did my iMessage turn green?

Green messages are SMS, not iMessage. This happens when recipient doesn’t have iMessage, has poor internet, or switched to Android. SMS still works but isn’t encrypted.