iPhone iMessage not working with Wi-Fi but works with cellular data

Why is iphone iMessage not working with Wi-Fi but works with only cellular data ?


I cannot send and receive messages when connected to Wi-Fi from my other iPhone


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iMessage issues

iPhone 11 Pro Max, iOS 26

Posted on Nov 6, 2025 6:49 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 10, 2025 12:04 AM

Re: iPhone iMessage not working with Wi-Fi but works with cellular data


You may want to check Settings > Apps > Messages, then make sure iMessage is turned on.


If you are sending to non-Apple (eg: Android) users, text messages in the Messages app must use cellular.

Apple to Apple devices use wi-fi for iMessages if the signal is strong enough, else they use cellular as well.

More info: What is the difference between iMessage, RCS, and SMS/MMS? - Apple Support


If needed, check you can: Connect to Wi-Fi on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

and

Wi-fi Assist is generally on by default,(ie switches between cellular and wi-fi) yet can be turned off, or back on, as you wish:

More info: About Wi-Fi Assist - Apple Support


If you have difficulties with your wi-fi network: or accessing the internet, you can check for intrference:

See how to: Resolve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues caused by wireless interference - Apple Support

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 10, 2025 12:04 AM in response to Iamsamuelkofidadzie

Re: iPhone iMessage not working with Wi-Fi but works with cellular data


You may want to check Settings > Apps > Messages, then make sure iMessage is turned on.


If you are sending to non-Apple (eg: Android) users, text messages in the Messages app must use cellular.

Apple to Apple devices use wi-fi for iMessages if the signal is strong enough, else they use cellular as well.

More info: What is the difference between iMessage, RCS, and SMS/MMS? - Apple Support


If needed, check you can: Connect to Wi-Fi on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

and

Wi-fi Assist is generally on by default,(ie switches between cellular and wi-fi) yet can be turned off, or back on, as you wish:

More info: About Wi-Fi Assist - Apple Support


If you have difficulties with your wi-fi network: or accessing the internet, you can check for intrference:

See how to: Resolve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues caused by wireless interference - Apple Support

iPhone iMessage not working with Wi-Fi but works with cellular data

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