iMessage needs to be enabled error after 26.1 update

Updated to IOS26.1 and now can only text via iMessage with select members of my contacts. Getting "iMessage needs to be enabled when it is already enabled. I have followed all protocols listed to solve this issue and nothing has worked. If someone texts me, then I can text them back but with many of these contacts, I cannot initiate communication. This occurred only after updating to 26.1. Are there any solutions or must we wait for an OS update?


Posted on Nov 29, 2025 12:16 PM

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Posted on Dec 1, 2025 12:13 PM

Do this, can't do harm, often fixes, do it exactly as stated


1.    Settings, Apps, Messages, turn off iMessage,


2.    Settings, Apps, Facetime, turn off Facetime,


3.    Power down the phone.


4.    Turn it on again.  


5.    Settings, Apps, Messages, turn on iMessage,   


6.    Settings, Apps, Facetime, turn on Facetime


 

8 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 1, 2025 12:13 PM in response to JCG24diving

Do this, can't do harm, often fixes, do it exactly as stated


1.    Settings, Apps, Messages, turn off iMessage,


2.    Settings, Apps, Facetime, turn off Facetime,


3.    Power down the phone.


4.    Turn it on again.  


5.    Settings, Apps, Messages, turn on iMessage,   


6.    Settings, Apps, Facetime, turn on Facetime


 

Dec 16, 2025 7:35 AM in response to JCG24diving

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: OS — iOS 26, About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...


Dec 16, 2025 7:36 AM in response to JCG24diving

If you are using a prepaid SIM card, the message may get deactivated each time your prepaid validity ends or your balance runs out. When the plan renews or you top up, the SIM may temporarily lose network service or the ability to send/receive SMS, which iMessage relies on for activation. As a result, iMessage may switch off automatically and then attempt to reactivate once your prepaid service is restored.


To activate iMessage and FaceTime using your Phone number

  1. First, check to know whether you have an SMS plan enabled for at least one SMS*** with your carrier. Contact your Carrier (Cellular Service Provider), the agency that issued the SIM to you
  2. If your iPhone is used with a carrier not found in the wireless carrier articles, make sure you can send and receive international SMS. (One international SMS*** Only)
  3. If you can't turn on or sign in to iMessage or FaceTime - Apple ...


*** You may not have an SMS plan (Domestic & International) enabled by your carrier for the SIM/eSIM that you use on your device. Apple Inc. does not provide SMS services.




iMessage needs to be enabled error after 26.1 update

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