ProblemThis can happen because the recipient does not use an Apple device, iMessage is off or temporarily unavailable, or settings need attention after setting up a new device.

iPhone messages appear green instead of blue

Green means the message used RCS or SMS/MMS instead of iMessage. If it is delivered, the color alone does not indicate a problem.

Try this first

1 quick checks · ~3 min

  1. Check delivery and whether you expected iMessageA conversation normally using RCS or SMS/MMS does not need to turn blue.

Step-by-step solutions

01

Check delivery and whether you expected iMessage

A conversation normally using RCS or SMS/MMS does not need to turn blue.

  1. If the message reaches someone who does not use iMessage, green is expected. Do not delete the conversation or change networks just because of the color.

  2. If you expected iMessage between Apple devices, check that it is enabled in Messages settings on both and review setup after a device change. It may also be temporarily unavailable.

  3. If the actual problem is failed delivery, use the sending and receiving guide rather than treating the color as a fault.

Next step

Still not working?

If iMessage remains unavailable when it should work, first check its connection and settings with the messaging guide. You cannot require a recipient using another service to receive iMessage.

Sources

Documentation behind this guide. Editorial recommendations are identified separately.

Source review: . A documentation review, not a physical hardware test.

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