If iMessage suddenly stopped working on your iPhone 8—whether after an update or seemingly out of nowhere—you’re not alone. Messages not sending, texts stuck in “sending” status, or receiving errors can be frustrating. But don’t worry, there are several fixes you can try to get iMessage back up and running.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix iMessage on your iPhone 8.
1. Check Apple’s System Status and Internet Connection
Before diving into settings:
- Visit Apple’s System Status page and make sure iMessage is marked as available.
- Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
- If you’re on cellular, make sure you have a strong 3G/4G/5G connection and enough data.
2. Close and Reopen the Messages App
Glitches in the app itself can cause problems. Force close and restart:
- Double-press the Home button.
- Swipe up on the Messages app to close it.
- Open the app again and try sending an iMessage.
3. Restart Your iPhone
Simple but effective, a restart can clear out minor bugs.
- Press and hold the Side button until the power slider appears.
- Slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, then power back on.
- Test iMessage again.
4. Toggle iMessage Off and On
Turning iMessage off and back on can help refresh the connection.
- Go to Settings > Messages.
- Toggle iMessage off.
- Wait a few seconds, then toggle it back on.
- Try sending a new message.
5. Delete Old Messages and Attachments
A cluttered message app can lead to glitches.
- Open Messages and delete long or outdated threads.
- Also remove heavy attachments like images or videos:
- Open a message thread > Tap the info (“i”) icon > Scroll to Photos and Attachments > Long press and tap Delete.
Then restart your iPhone and try iMessage again.
6. Reset All Settings
If iMessage still isn’t working, some settings may have been altered during an iOS update.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- This will reset system preferences, but won’t delete your data.
Re-enable Wi-Fi and other preferences, then test iMessage.
7. Check Date & Time Settings
iMessage requires accurate time settings to work properly.
- Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
- Make sure Set Automatically is enabled.
8. Try a New iMessage
Sometimes issues are thread-specific. Create a new iMessage:
- Open Messages > Tap the new message icon.
- Type the contact’s name or number.
- Compose a test message and send it.
9. Contact Your Carrier or Apple Support
If none of the above steps work:
- Check with your carrier to confirm iMessage is supported and there are no account restrictions.
- If you suspect a bug from a recent iOS update, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for assistance.