Here are some ways to resolve the issue with “iMessage needs to be enabled to send this message” pop-upwhen trying sending an iMessage using iPhone.
iMessage must be enabled to send this message
Although iMessage is a efficient messaging system provided by Apple but it is recognized to be plagued by glitches and issues.
Two instances of this are the iMessage Waiting for Activation issue that is still a problem for users, and the latest “iMessage Needs to be enabled to send this message” pop-up that appears on iPhone.
The general rule is that the “iMessage needs to be enabled” error message is reported more frequently after an iOS update, however it can happen at any point in time.
1. Restart iPhone
A simple reboot of your device could assist in resolving the issue.
Scroll to the Settings menu, General and scroll to the bottom and select Shut Down. Next select the Slider to turn off the power on your OFF iPhone.
After 30 seconds, restart the iPhone with the Power button. When the iPhone restarts, check if you can send iMessages and not encounter any issues.
2. Check iMessage Server Status
If you are using an iPhone or your computer or a computer, visit the Apple system status page and review of iMessage entry. Make sure that the dot in front of iMessage appears green.
If you encounter problems, you’ll be able to see an error message in the iMessage’s entry. Also, the dots next to the iMessage icon will turn red.
3. Disable/Enable iMessage
In Settings, select Messages and shift the toggle next to iMessage to the off.
In 30 second intervals, turn off your iPhone then Enable iMessage back on your device.
4. Enable SMS and MMS Messaging
iPhone uses carriers that support SMS/MMS in order to deliver messages Email addresses and to people who do not use Apple Devices.
Navigate to the Settings menu > Messages, and ensure that MMS messaging and SMS Send are turned on.
Following this, the iPhone can be set to utilize both Apple enabled iMessaging system as well as the carrier-supported MMS/SMS messaging systems.
5. Delete Stuck iMessage Conversation
If you’re unable in sending an iMessage and you see the “iMessage needs to be enabled” message when trying sending an iMessage you can simply erase the blocked iMessage conversation and begin with a fresh one.
Another method by which users have reported resolving this issue is to delete the last iMessage delivered or received prior to the onset of the issue.
6. Check Send/Receive Settings
The most common cause of iMessage issues on iPhone is that it is not properly Send/Receive settings.
Click Settings, Messages and Settings then on the screen for Messages scroll to the bottom and then tap Send & Send and.
The next page, be certain that the Apple ID email Address is displayed under the “You Can Receive iMessage to and Reply From” section.
iMessage uses Apple ID to send and receive iMessages. This is why it is important to ensure that you have your Apple ID is listed under “You Can be Reached By iMessage At” section along with your Phone Number.
7. Reset Network Settings
Keep track of the WLAN Network password then follow these steps to reset Network Settings in your iPhone to the factory default settings.
Select Settings, General and then Reset and then select the Reset Network Settings.
In the pop-up, click Reset Network Settings to confirm.
After that you can connect your iPhone to the WiFi Network and check whether you can send iMessages.