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Troubleshooting iMessage "Not Delivered" Errors on iPhones
Key points
- Tap the red exclamation point to retry sending a message.
- Poor signal or lack of internet can cause delivery failures.
- Send as Text Message option uses cellular network for delivery.
- Enable "Retry as Text Message" for automatic SMS fallback.
Understanding Message Delivery Issues
The iPhone's Messages app integrates three services: iMessage (blue bubbles, Apple proprietary), RCS, and SMS (green bubbles). iMessage and RCS rely on internet connectivity, while SMS uses the cellular network. Delivery failures often stem from issues with these underlying protocols or network connectivity.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
When a "Not Delivered" error appears, tap the red exclamation point next to the message to attempt resending it. This simple action can resolve issues caused by temporary signal drops. Enabling and disabling airplane mode can also help re-establish a cellular connection.
Switching to SMS for Delivery
If internet access is unavailable but cellular reception is present, messages can be sent via SMS. To do this, tap and hold the failed message and select "Send as Text Message." This changes the message bubble from blue to green, indicating it will be sent over the cellular network. Users can also enable "Retry as Text Message" in Settings > Apps > Messages to automatically resend failed iMessages or RCS messages as SMS.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
This guide provides solutions for iPhone users encountering the "Not Delivered" error when sending messages. It explains common causes like poor signal and offers steps to resend messages or switch to SMS.