Last updated: March 5, 2026
iMessages may fail to deliver, showing a "Not Delivered" error or remaining as a green SMS instead of a blue iMessage bubble. Messages may also show a single checkmark without being delivered to the recipient.
Internet connection: iMessage requires Wi-Fi or cellular data to work.
iMessage disabled: The service may be turned off on your device or the recipient's device.
Apple server issues: Apple's iMessage servers may be experiencing downtime.
Recipient blocked you: If you've been blocked, messages won't deliver.
Phone number not registered: Your phone number may not be registered with iMessage.
• Make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to refresh your connection.
• Try loading a website to confirm your internet works.
• Go to Settings > Messages > Make sure iMessage is toggled On.
• If it's already on, toggle it off, wait 30 seconds, and toggle it back on.
• This re-registers your device with Apple's servers.
• Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
• Make sure your phone number and Apple ID email are checked.
• Verify the correct number/email is selected for "Start New Conversations From".
• Power off your iPhone completely.
• Wait 30 seconds and turn it back on.
• Try sending the message again.
• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
• This resets all Wi-Fi, cellular, and VPN settings.
• Reconnect to Wi-Fi and try sending again.
• Visit apple.com/support/systemstatus to see if iMessage is experiencing issues.
• If there's an outage, wait for Apple to resolve it.
If iMessages still won't deliver after all fixes, contact Apple Support at support.apple.com. There may be an issue with your Apple ID or carrier settings.
Q: Why are my messages green instead of blue?
A: Green messages are SMS texts, not iMessages. The recipient may not have an iPhone, iMessage may be disabled on their device, or there's no data connection.
Q: Can I tell if someone blocked me on iMessage?
A: There's no definitive way. Signs include messages never showing "Delivered", calls going straight to voicemail, and no read receipts if they previously had them on.
Q: Does iMessage work internationally?
A: Yes, iMessage works over the internet worldwide at no additional cost. It uses data, not SMS. Both sender and receiver need iMessage enabled.
Q: Why does iMessage say "Sent as Text Message"?
A: This happens when iMessage can't connect to the internet. The message is automatically sent as SMS instead. Check your data connection.