iMessage is a free Apple-branded messenger that works only on Apple gear. This service allows you to exchange messages between Apple users without installing third-party apps. Plus, iMessage has all sorts of cute effects, emojis, and other cool little things, and now you can even transfer money through this service.

In general, a solid positive and a lot of usefulness. 

People adore this program, but quite often, they face a problem with iMessage. The smartphone may report waiting for iMessage activation, write that it’s impossible to connect to the iMessage server, or simply not send messages or open, even if all the settings seem to be done correctly. 

Unpleasant situation. But let’s discover what to do if iMessage is not working.

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Top Priority Actions

First of all, make sure that you did everything correctly and didn’t change any settings.

• Check your Internet connection. The app may not work due to poor signal.
• Check your cellular network connection. Sending SMS requires a stable one. 
• Check with your mobile operator to see if they can send the type of message you want (for example, MMS or SMS).
• Enter your email in the iMessage settings.
• Make sure your device has enough space to receive images and videos.
• Make sure the recipient’s email or phone number are written correctly.
• If an activation message pops up, wait a day. In some cases, iMessage activation takes up to 24 hours.

Also, make sure the problem is with your gear and not with Apple. In general, Apple products and services are pretty reliable. However, there is a chance that Apple is the source of the issue. 

Make sure iMessage functions correctly in your area first. If there’s an iMessage-related bug, you can wait until Apple releases a fix for the bug (which the company usually does fairly quickly when an issue occurs) or if it’s urgent, downgrade the OS where possible.

If you have everything set up correctly, but the program still doesn’t work, just move on down the list – something will definitely help!

Best ways to make iMessage work 

#1. Reboot your device

Let’s start with the simplest way to solve the problem. If you want to fix iMessage not opening, just force reboot the device, which will help reset the operating system software errors.

This method is equally good for both iPhones and Mac laptops.

#2. Credit your account

This paragraph is for you if the program on your smartphone doesn’t work, showing an activation error. 

iMessage activation occurs after sending a service message, for which a commission is charged. Make sure you have funds on your phone and credit it if necessary, then try activating iMessage again.

#3. Reset network settings

This operation is often a lifesaver in case of various iMessage-related issues. Please note that when you reset the network settings, the saved passwords for Wi-Fi points will be deleted.

#4. Activate automatic time setting

And one more simple, but extremely effective way to solve iMessage activation problems. Go to the menu “Settings” ? “General” ? “Date and time” and move the switch “Automatic” to the active position. 

Also, check your iPhone’s geolocation settings, which are responsible for determining the time zone. The item must be enabled so that the Apple gear can use the current location. This setting can be accidentally turned off when optimizing processes related to geolocation.

#5. Make sure your OS is up to date 

If you’re using an older version of the OS, iMessage’s reliability may be affected. Yes, Apple updates are not always smooth either, but, as a rule, new versions of programs work better and faster than previous ones, especially on “not very new” devices.

#6. Try deleting the message cache

Start by signing out of Messages and iCloud in order to delete any residual sign-in data and restore Messages to its default state. After that, get rid of the System/Library/Messages folder. Copy the folder to your desktop or another location in advance if you want to save cached messages for future reference.

#7. Link iMessage to mail

If nothing helps, and it is vital to send iMessage, linking the messenger to the email box, which will begin to act as your number, will help out.

After completing these settings, iMessage will be successfully activated and you will be able to continue communicating through the messenger.

#8. Wait a few days

And one more addition from Apple fans. In most cases, the problem with iMessage can occur after installing a new version of iOS or changing your Apple ID password. And very often it resolves itself after a few days.

Wrap up 

Losing the ability to send iMessages can be an annoying headache. But by following the before-mentioned guideline, you can eliminate the issue, and get back to messaging. Wish you good luck!