How to Change a Text Message to iMessage on iPhone or iPad

Sending texts as iMessages instead of SMS

Last Updated: February 11, 2022 Tested

This wikiHow teaches you how force a text message to send as an iMessage on an iPhone or iPad. iMessages can only be sent to other iPhone users.

Steps

1
Make sure both the sender and receiver are connected to the internet. iMessages are transferred over the internet, so both users should be connected Wi-Fi or cellular data.
- Android users cannot send or receive iMessages.
- Messages that appear in green are SMS/MMS messages, while messages in blue are iMessages.
You'll usually find this app on the home screen.

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It's the green icon with a white chat bubble inside.
If the switch was already green, there's no need to toggle this switch.
Keep in mind that if you're messaging someone who has an Android or any phone that isn't an iPhone, you will be unable to send them text messages while this switch is off.
Some contact information will appear.
They appear beneath the “YOU CAN BE REACHED BY IMESSAGE AT” header. If you don't see a check mark to the left of both items, tap the item so it appears.
It's the green icon with a white chat bubble inside. You'll usually find it on the home screen.
10
Send a message. Any message you send will now go through as an iMessage instead of an SMS or MMS message.
- If the message doesn't go through, try restarting your iPhone.
- When you're finished, it's a good idea to turn SMS messages back on so you can send messages to people who don't have iPhones. Here's how:
  - Open Settings .
  - Tap Messages .
  - Slide “Send as SMS” to the On position.
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Can I search for individuals in my contact list who also utilize iMessage?

Community Answer

Yes, you can search for individuals in your contact list who also use iMessage.

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What if Messages forces me to use text message and wont let me use iMessage?

Community Answer

Text message will be auto-used only when you don't have internet, iMessage will be auto-used when you have internet. It forces you to use text message because you do not have internet.

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What do I do if my iMessage wasn't sent?

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You need to make sure you have cellular data or wifi. If it doesn't send, try again.

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How to Change a Text Message to iMessage on iPhone or iPad

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