Cannot Send or Receive Texts
Can't send or receive texts on your Android or iPhone? This troubleshooting guide walks you through the most common causes of SMS and MMS problems—including message not sent, delayed delivery, or group text issues—and provides step-by-step solutions for both platforms. Get your text messaging working again fast!
Common Symptoms
Unable to send or receive SMS or MMS
"Message not sent" or "Failed to send" error
Delayed or missing messages
Group texts or picture messages not working
Step by Step Troubleshooting
Android
Check Signal Strength
Ensure you have at least 1-2 bars of cellular signal.Airplane Mode
Make sure Airplane Mode is OFF.Check Message Center Number
Messages app > Settings > Advanced > SMS center number (verify with carrier).Check Storage Space
Free up space if device storage is full.Check Blocked Numbers
Messages app > Settings > Blocked numbers.Restart Device
Try SIM in Another Device
If works: Device issue. If not: SIM/network issue.Contact Carrier if unresolved.
iPhone
Check Signal Strength
Ensure you have cellular signal.Airplane Mode
Make sure Airplane Mode is OFF.Check Blocked Contacts
Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts.Check iMessage Activation
Settings > Messages > iMessage (toggle ON/OFF, sign in with Apple ID).Check MMS Settings
Settings > Messages > MMS Messaging (toggle ON).Restart iPhone
Try SIM in Another iPhone
If works: Device issue. If not: SIM/network issue.Contact Carrier if unresolved.
Troubleshooting Flowchart (Text Outline)
Signal present?
No → Move to area with coverage
Yes ↓Airplane Mode OFF?
No → Turn OFF
Yes ↓Blocked numbers?
Yes → Unblock
No ↓Message center number correct? (Android)
No → Update to carrier's number
Yes ↓iMessage/MMS enabled? (iPhone)
No → Enable in Settings
Yes ↓Storage space available?
No → Free up space
Yes ↓Restart device
Try SIM in another device
Works → Device issue
Doesn’t work → SIM/network issueContact carrier
Pro Tips / Dealer Notes
MMS and group texts require cellular data—ensure data is ON and APN is correct.
iMessage issues may require signing out/in with Apple ID.
Blocked or spam-filtered numbers are a frequent cause of missing texts.
FAQs
Q: Why can't I receive texts from one person?
A: Their number may be blocked or filtered, or they may have issues on their end.
Q: Why are my group texts or picture messages not working?
A: MMS requires cellular data and correct APN/MMS settings—verify these in device settings.
