I. Introduction
Apple’s iPhone is a widely used smartphone all across the world. One of the main features of the iPhone is its ability to send and receive text messages. However, even with advanced technology, iPhones’ text messages are not always delivered to the intended recipients. This can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re trying to communicate with someone quickly. There could be several reasons for the delay or failure of text messages reaching their desired destination.
In this article, we will explore the top reasons why the iPhone text messages are not being delivered, and what to do about it.
II. 7 Reasons Why Your iPhone Text Messages Are Not Being Delivered
Inadequate network coverage
The most basic reason why text messages are not being delivered is due to inadequate network coverage. If your iPhone is not in an area with a strong signal, text messages aren’t going anywhere. Check your network bars when trying to send a message to see if you have enough coverage where you are. If the network coverage is poor, you should either move to an area with better coverage or wait until you are in a more suitable location.
Message not sent as an iMessage
If you rely solely on iMessage, your messages are not going anywhere if you are out of the range of the Wi-Fi network. When you send a text message, it is usually sent as an iMessage, especially if the sender has previously communicated with the receiver over iMessage. If you switch off the option of ‘Send as SMS’ in your messaging settings, your message won’t be delivered if the recipient is not connected to Wi-Fi.
Blocked phone number
Another prominent reason for text messages not being delivered is that your phone number may be blocked by the receiver. If someone has blocked your number, they will not receive any text messages or calls from you. You can only fix this by contacting the person who blocked your number directly.
Software issues
Software issues on your iPhone can cause problems with sending text messages. These problems can only be resolved through an update. If the ‘System Update’ option appears on the screen when you try to send a message, it means that you have to upgrade to the new iOS to continue sending texts.
Low storage
Your iPhone requires free storage space to manage messages effectively. If you run out of system storage, it can cause problems with text message delivery. You should always keep a portion of your iPhone’s storage available.
Outdated operating system
If your iPhone’s operating system is not up to date, it can affect the delivery of messages. Upgrades are frequently released to patch software issues, so make sure to keep your iPhone updated with the most recent bug upgrades.
Network congestion
If the network is congested with too many requests and data, delivery of text messages can get delayed. When this happens, you will receive an error message. Wait for the network congestion to clear before attempting to send your text again.
III. What to Do When iPhone Text Messages Fail to Deliver: A Guide
Resending the message
If you get an error message while sending a text message, the first thing you should do is try to resend it. Press and hold the message that is not sent and chose the ‘Send’ option.
Restarting the iPhone
If the message is still not delivered, try restarting your iPhone by holding down the power button until the ‘Power Off’ appears. Swipe to the right on the screen and let the phone shut down completely. Wait for 15-20 seconds, then turn the iPhone back on.
Resetting network settings
If you cannot send messages on your iPhone, try resetting the network settings. This may clear out any bugs in the system caused by recent updates. If your iPhone connects to the corporate network via VPN, check the VPN settings to see if this is causing the problem.
Updating the iOS
If none of the solutions work, make sure that your iPhone is updated with the latest iOS version. To check if you have the latest iOS, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘General’ > ‘Software Update.’
Contacting your carrier
If nothing above works, contact your service provider so they can investigate and troubleshoot. You may need to go further by scheduling an appointment to obtain answers and resolution.
IV. The Top 5 iPhone Settings That Can Affect Text Message Delivery
Airplane Mode
Airplane mode disables your iPhone’s connections to the network, including cellular and Wi-Fi networks. Your text messages won’t get sent if this option is enabled. To turn this option off, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and click on the airplane icon.
Do Not Disturb mode
Your iPhone’s silent mode disables all incoming notifications, including messages. This setting can prevent text messages from being delivered. To turn off the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode, swipe up from the bottom of the screen, and click on the crescent moon icon to switch it off.
Cellular data
Without cellular data, your iPhone cannot send or receive messages. Check if it’s enabled by going to ‘Settings’ > ‘Cellular’ and ensuring that ‘Cellular Data’ is toggled on.
Wi-Fi calling
Wi-Fi calling overrides cellular networks by using wireless networks to make calls and text messages. Toggle this option off by going to ‘Settings’ > ‘Cellular’ > ‘Wi-Fi Calling’ and switch it off.
Text Message Forwarding
This option lets you send text messages to other Apple Devices. If this option is not working, the messages will not be delivered. Simply visit ‘Settings’ > ‘Messages’ > ‘Text Message Forwarding,’ and ensure that your other devices are all signed in and operational.
V. Understanding iPhone Message Delivery Status: Common Errors and Fixes
When sending a message, there are several statuses that your message can reflect. Understanding these messages’ status is essential in troubleshooting a problem:
Delivered
This means that the message has been properly delivered to the recipient’s iPhone. The message also displays a ‘Delivered’ tag.
Not Delivered
If the message did not get delivered, the error message ‘Not Delivered’ appears below the original message. Follow the guidelines provided above to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Turned Off
If the recipient’s iPhone is turned off for a long period while the message is being delivered, the message will be delivered once their device is turned on again.
Blocked
If the message is not being delivered, it is possible that the receiver has blocked the message sender’s number. Follow the instructions provided above to unblock the number or contact the receiver and ask them to unblock you.
Network Error
When the network is congested or there is insufficient signal in the area, messages may not be delivered. The message in this scenario will show as ‘Not Delivered.’ Check your network signal or try resending your text when signal strength is stronger.
VI. Is Your iPhone Text Messaging Blocked? How to Check and Resolve
Different ways text messages can get blocked on an iPhone
There are different ways that text messages can stop being delivered on your iPhone. The recipient may have blocked your number, or it may be that the carrier has blocked your device.
How to check if your phone number is blocked
You can check if your number has been blocked by calling or texting someone else with iPhones. Then, contact the person you think has blocked you. If the person has blocked you, you won’t receive an answer.
How to unblock a phone number
You cannot unblock your number on an iPhone; the recipient must unblock you. You should contact the receiver, and they will need to go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Phone’ > ‘Blocked’ and unblock your number.
VII. The Role of Network Connection in iPhone Text Messaging
How network connection affects text message delivery
Network connection is the foundation for all messaging services to operate. If the network signal is substandard or non-existent, messages will not be delivered even if you follow all the correct settings.
What to do if you are in areas with poor or no network
If you live or work in areas with poor or no network coverage, then you may have to rely on other messaging options (i.e., email) or wait until you are in an area with stable coverage.
VIII. How iOS Updates Affect Text Message Delivery on iPhone
Discuss how newer iOS update can impact message deliveries
When iOS updates, messaging apps’ features may get added or disabled based on user feedback, which may affect delivered messages. Typically, new updates are supposed to provide bug fixes for messaging apps.
How to update the iOS
Prior to updating your iOS, ensure that your iPhone’s existing battery is enough to handle the updates. Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘General’ > ‘Software Update.’ The recent available update will appear, then click ‘Download and Install.”
IX. Conclusion
While iPhones are known for outstanding delivery features, text messages may not always deliver to the intended recipients due to various reasons. This article has explored the top seven reasons why text messages may fail to deliver, tips about what to do to fix the problem, common message errors, and how iOS updates impact text messages delivery. Take time to try all the suggested solutions and find what works best for your iPhone to enhance its message deliveries.