f-e6064299-e01a-4286-9a9c-7b3c92c43ff8

f-cba9ee83-a95e-4a93-b1ff-4f600a25a236

Apple iPhone 16

iOS 18

I can't send and receive iMessages on my Apple iPhone 16 iOS 18

Cause 1 of 4: There are problems activating iMessage

The first time you activate iMessage, it may take a while before the activation is completed.

Solution: Turn off iMessage and try setting up your phone for iMessaging again after some time.

Step 1 of 6

Find "Messages"

Press Settings.

Step 2 of 6

Find "Messages"

Press Apps.

Step 3 of 6

Find "Messages"

Press Messages.

Step 4 of 6

Turn on iMessage

Press the indicator next to "iMessage" to turn on the function.

Step 5 of 6

Turn text message alternative on or off

Press the indicator next to "Send as Text Message" to turn the function on or off.

Step 6 of 6

Return to the home screen

Slide your finger upwards starting from the bottom of the screen to return to the home screen.

1 Find "Messages"

Press Settings.

Press Apps.

Press Messages.

2 Turn on iMessage

Press the indicator next to "iMessage" to turn on the function.

3 Turn text message alternative on or off

Press the indicator next to "Send as Text Message" to turn the function on or off.

If you turn on the function, your iMessages will be sent as text messages if the service is unavailable.

4 Return to the home screen

Slide your finger upwards starting from the bottom of the screen to return to the home screen.