iMessage Not Delivering on iPhone 11 After iOS 17 Update? Try These Fixes

by

Seeing the dreaded “Not Delivered” when sending iMessages on your iPhone 11 after updating to iOS 17? You’re not alone. This annoying issue usually shows up after major iOS updates but can often be fixed with a few quick tweaks.

Here’s how to troubleshoot and get iMessage working normally again on your iPhone 11 running iOS 17.

1. Install the Latest iOS 17 Update

Apple often releases rapid follow-up updates to fix bugs in major releases. If you’re still running the original iOS 17 version, updating to the latest available patch (like iOS 17.0.1 or 17.0.2) might solve the iMessage glitch.

To update wirelessly:

  1. Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi and make sure it has at least 50% battery.
  2. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  3. Tap Download and Install if an update is available.

To update using a computer:

  1. Plug your iPhone into a Mac or Windows PC.
  2. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows).
  3. Select your device and click Check for Update under the General tab.
  4. Follow the prompts to download and install the update.

Tip: Always back up your iPhone before updating, either through iCloud or your computer.

2. Toggle iMessage Off and Back On

Sometimes, a simple toggle can re-establish your connection to Apple’s iMessage servers.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Messages.
  3. Turn iMessage off.
  4. Wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on.

This refreshes your iMessage activation and can clear temporary glitches.

3. Reset Network Settings

Corrupted network configurations are a common cause of iMessage problems after an update.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
  3. Tap Reset Network Settings.
  4. Enter your passcode and confirm.

Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings, so have those ready to re-enter.

4. Make Sure Cellular Data Is Turned On

If you’re not on Wi-Fi, iMessage needs cellular data to work.

  1. Go to Settings > Messages.
  2. Scroll down and make sure Send as SMS is on (optional backup).
  3. Then go to Settings > Cellular and make sure Cellular Data is turned on.

If you’re in a low-signal area or using airplane mode, that could also cause delivery failures.

5. Reinsert Your SIM Card

Removing and reinserting your SIM can help your iPhone reconnect cleanly to your carrier’s network.

  1. Use a SIM ejector tool (or paperclip) to pop out the SIM tray.
  2. Remove the SIM, wait a few seconds, and reinsert it.
  3. Slide the tray back in and wait for your iPhone to reconnect.

This can help fix issues related to activation or outdated carrier settings.

6. Check Apple’s System Status Page

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end at all. If Apple’s iMessage servers are down or experiencing issues, messages won’t go through.

Visit: Apple System Status and look for any alerts next to iMessage.

7. Sign Out of iMessage and Sign Back In

  1. Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
  2. Tap your Apple ID at the bottom and choose Sign Out.
  3. Wait a few seconds, then sign back in with your Apple ID.

This can re-authenticate your account and clear activation problems.

8. Check Date and Time Settings

Wrong date or time settings can mess with iMessage activation.

  1. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
  2. Make sure Set Automatically is turned on.

9. Try Sending to Another iPhone or Apple ID

Sometimes the issue is with the recipient, not you. Try sending an iMessage to a different Apple device or contact to see if it goes through.

10. Contact Apple Support

If none of these steps fix the issue, it might be time to reach out to Apple. There could be a deeper issue with your iPhone’s software or activation that needs their help.

Leave a Comment