[Solved] How to Fix Message Failed to Send on iPhone in 2025?

"Since my iPhone 12 Pro updated to iOS 15.4.1 every time I try to send a message I get an error to say that the message failed to send. However my friend called to tell me she received it multiple times! I've turned iMessage on and off. Restarted my phone. But still have the same issue. Has anyone had this and managed to fix it?"

- from Apple Community

In the daily use of an iPhone, many users may encounter issues with message-sending failures, such as a red exclamation mark when sending SMS or iMessage, or receiving a "Not Delivered" notification. This not only affects daily communication but can also prevent important information from being transmitted on time. You might be asking, "Why is my iPhone not sending text messages to one person?" Don't worry, this article will analyze the common reasons for message-sending failures and provide detailed solutions to help you resolve the "message failed to send on iPhone" issue.

Part 1. Why Is My iPhone Message Not Delivering?

The iPhone message failed to send issue may be caused by the following common reasons:

• Unstable Wi-Fi or Cellular Data Connection: If the network connection is unstable or disconnected, iMessage or SMS may fail to send.
• Airplane Mode: If Airplane Mode is turned on, the iPhone will not be able to connect to the network, preventing messages from being sent.
• iMessage Server Issues: Sometimes, Apple's iMessage service may experience outages, causing messages to fail to send on iPhone.
• Insufficient Storage Space: If the iPhone's storage is nearly full, it may affect the ability to send SMS or iMessage.
• iOS System Errors or Bugs: Software issues or incorrect settings may lead to message-sending failures, especially after a system update.
• Incorrect or Incomplete Contact Information: If the contact information you're sending messages to is incorrect or their phone number format is wrong, the message may fail to send.

Part 2. How to Fix Message Failed to Send on iPhone

After we know the possible reasons, here are 8 effective methods you can use to fix iPhone failed to send message.

Fix 1. Try Again

In some cases, "iPhone says message failed to send but it sent" is due to a temporary glitch. In such situations, we can try resending the message to see if it goes through. Here's how to do it:

Step 1. Open the "Messages" app and locate the message that failed to send.

Step 2. Tap the red exclamation mark icon, then select "Try Again".

Step 3. If the message still won't send, tap the red exclamation mark icon again, then choose "Send as Text Message". Standard messaging rates may apply.

Fix 2. Check Network Connection

When the network connection is unstable, the iPhone may fail to send messages. This is especially true for messages sent via iMessage, which rely heavily on Wi-Fi or cellular data. If you encounter the "text message failed to send on iPhone" error, first make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network. If the network connection is stable but you're still unable to send messages, you can try resetting your network settings:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Reset" > "Reset Network Settings".

Step 2. Enter your device password and confirm the action.

Step 3. After reconnecting to the network, try sending the message again.

Fix 3. Check iMessage Settings

If iMessage is incorrectly configured or not enabled, it can also cause the "iPhone message failed to send" issue. Properly setting up iMessage is key to resolving this problem. Here's how to do it:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "Messages" > "iMessage" to check if iMessage is enabled.

Step 2. If iMessage is enabled but you're still unable to send messages, turn off iMessage, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

Fix 4. Restart the Messages App

If the Messages app has been running for too long or crashes, it may prevent messages from being sent properly. Closing and restarting the app can resolve the "message failed to send on iPhone" issue.

Here are the steps:

Step 1. Double-click the "Home" button or swipe up to enter the multitasking view.

Step 2. Swipe up to close the Messages app.

Step 3. Reopen the Messages app and try sending the message again.

Fix 5. Restart the iPhone

If restarting the Message app doesn't work, you can try to restart the iPhone to fix the iPhone failed to send message.

Here is how to restart the iPhone:

For iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, or later:

• Press and hold both the "Volume" button and the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device and wait for about 30 seconds until it powers down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 6, 7, 8, or SE (2nd or 3rd generation):

• Press and hold the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device and wait for about 30 seconds for it to shut down.
• To power your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier:

• Press and hold the "Top" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device and wait for about 30 seconds for it to shut down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Top" button until the Apple logo appears.

Fix 6. Check iMessage System Status

Apple's iMessage service relies on its servers to function. If there is an issue with the servers, you may encounter the "iPhone failed to send message" problem. Just visit Apple's System Status page to check if the iMessage service is listed as "Operational". If it shows any issues, please wait for Apple to resolve the problem and try again later.

Fix 7. Update iOS System

An outdated iOS version may also cause the iPhone failed to send message. Updating the system can fix potential bugs and improve device performance.

To update your iPhone, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update". (iPhone stuck on a software update?)

Step 2. If an update is available, tap "Download and Install".

Step 3. Once the update is complete, try sending the message again.

Fix 8. Use iOS System Recovery

If the above methods do not work, you can use a professional tool like iOS System Recovery to quickly fix the issue. This tool is specifically designed to resolve iOS system problems and can repair the "message failed to send on iPhone" issue without losing any data.

Why choose iOS System Recovery:

• Fix iPhone failed to send message without data loss.
• Support to fix iMessage doesn't say delivered, iMessage not working, iPhone stuck on recovery mode/DFU mode/hello screen, iPhone blue/green/white/black screen of death, etc.
• Free downgrade and upgrade iOS version, such as downgrade iOS 18 to iOS 17.
• Provide two repair modes: Standard Mode and Advanced Mode.
• The latest iPhone 16 and iOS 18 are supported.

Here is how to fix message failed to send on iPhone using iOS System Recovery:

01Download the app to your computer by clicking the download button. Once the app is launched, select "iOS System Recovery".

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

02Connect your iPhone to the PC using a USB cable, and tap "Trust" to confirm the connection if it's your first time connecting the iPhone. Next, click "Start" to begin.

03Verify the iOS model and other details displayed on the interface, then click "Repair" to download the latest firmware. The tool will then start fixing the issue.

Fix 9. Contact Your Carrier or Apple Support

If your iPhone still failed to send message after trying all the solutions, your next step is to contact your mobile carrier. Call their customer service line for assistance. If they are unable to help, it's likely a hardware issue, and you should reach out to Apple or an authorized service provider for professional support.

Final Verdict

The methods above can resolve "message failed to send on iPhone" issues. If you'd prefer to skip the complex steps and quickly fix the problem, we recommend using iOS System Recovery. This tool is simple to use and can thoroughly repair device issues while protecting your data.

Give it a try now and get your iPhone back to full functionality!

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