How to Send an SMS Instead of an iMessage on iPhone

Learn how to send a regular SMS text message instead of an iMessage by turning off iMessage on your iPhone.

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To send an SMS instead of an iMessage, turn off iMessage first. Go to Settings > Messages and toggle off iMessage. Then, from the Messages app, simply send your text. It should be delivered as an SMS, often indicated by green text bubbles.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why would I want to send an SMS instead of an iMessage? You might want to send an SMS instead of an iMessage if the recipient does not have an Apple device, if you have no internet connection, or if iMessage is temporarily unavailable.
  2. How can I tell if a message is sent as SMS or iMessage? Messages sent as iMessages appear as blue bubbles, while SMS messages appear as green bubbles in the Messages app on iPhone.
  3. Can I send an SMS without turning off iMessage completely? Yes, if iMessage is active, your message will automatically be sent as an SMS only if the iMessage service is unavailable or if the recipient is not on an Apple device.

Watch More

For more helpful tips on managing your iPhone messaging settings and troubleshooting message delivery issues, check out our related videos on iMessage features and SMS alternatives.

  1. How to Stop Sending SMS Messages: Easy Ways to Mute or Block Texts Learn how to stop sending SMS messages by muting conversations, blocking contacts, or disabling automatic SMS features on your phone.