If your iMessage suddenly stopped working on your iPhone 7—or if it’s been acting weird after a recent iOS update—you’re not alone. This guide covers everything you need to know to diagnose and fix iMessage problems on your iPhone.
Common iMessage Problems on iPhone 7
- Messages not sending or receiving
- iMessage stuck on “waiting for activation”
- Messages showing “not delivered”
- iMessage missing after update
- iMessage freezing, crashing, or being unresponsive
Why iMessage Might Stop Working
Several reasons can cause iMessage to break down, including:
- Apple’s servers temporarily going offline
- Your phone number or Apple ID not being properly registered
- Network issues or poor connectivity
- Incorrect date and time settings
- Software bugs after updates
Step-by-Step Fixes for iMessage Problems
1. Check Apple’s System Status
Before troubleshooting, check if iMessage is down for everyone:
- Visit Apple’s System Status Page.
- If iMessage shows a problem, you’ll just need to wait.
2. Make Sure iMessage is Properly Registered
- Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
- Ensure your phone number and Apple ID are listed and checked.
- If not, sign out and back in with your Apple ID.
3. Check Your Internet Connection
iMessage needs Wi-Fi or cellular data to work:
- Open Safari and try visiting a website.
- If your data isn’t working, connect to a different Wi-Fi network.
- If you’re on a call and iMessage won’t send, your carrier might not support simultaneous voice and data—try switching to Wi-Fi.
4. Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes all your phone needs is a quick reboot:
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Slide to power off.
- After 30 seconds, turn it back on.
5. Check Date and Time Settings
Incorrect time settings can block activation:
- Settings > General > Date & Time.
- Turn on Set Automatically.
6. Reset Network Settings
Network glitches can block iMessage from working.
To reset:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- This will erase Wi-Fi passwords but often clears up the problem.
After resetting, turn iMessage back on in Settings > Messages.
Additional Fixes If iMessage Still Isn’t Working
For Problems with Specific Contacts
- Make sure you haven’t blocked the contact:
- Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts.
- Try deleting the conversation and starting a new thread.
- Remove and re-add the contact in your Contacts app.
For “iMessage Waiting for Activation” Errors
- Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.
- Check date and time settings.
- Try toggling Airplane Mode on and off.
- Turn off iMessage, reboot your iPhone, and then turn iMessage back on.
Backup and Restore as New (Last Resort)
If nothing else works:
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes.
- Erase your iPhone (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings).
- Set it up as new and test iMessage before restoring your backup.
Other Helpful Tricks
- If your iMessage won’t send while on a cellular call, turn off LTE or set it to “Data Only.”
- Disable 3D Touch or Reduce Motion if iMessage effects (like invisible ink) aren’t working.
- For unsent messages, tap the exclamation mark (!) icon next to the message and resend.
- For blank or crashing iMessages, force restart your iPhone.
When to Contact Support
If you’ve tried everything and iMessage still isn’t working:
- Contact Apple Support for further help.
- Or talk to your carrier if the problem seems tied to your phone number.