seniorspectrumnewspaper – Apple’s iOS 26 update, released last month, brought several new features but also some bugs. Users reported issues with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and notably, trouble activating iMessage. While Apple quickly fixed the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth problems in the iOS 26.0.1 update, the iMessage activation issue required more explanation.
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Apple recently published a support document explaining the cause of the iMessage activation problem. The company says the issue often occurs when a device has an inactive SIM card using the same phone number as the active SIM. This duplication causes iMessage to malfunction and prevents proper activation.
Signs of a broken iMessage include messages failing with a “Not Delivered” alert, messages sending as green bubbles (indicating SMS or RCS instead of iMessage), messages being sent from your email instead of your phone number, or seeing your phone number listed twice under Settings > Apps > Messages > Send & Receive. These symptoms confirm the device struggles to activate iMessage correctly due to SIM conflicts.
Apple’s identification of the issue helps users pinpoint the cause of their iMessage troubles. With iMessage playing a vital role in iPhone communication, resolving activation problems swiftly is important for user experience. The next section explains how users can fix this issue using Apple’s recommended steps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix iMessage Activation Issues on iOS 26
To fix the iMessage activation problem on iOS 26, Apple advises users to remove any inactive SIM with the same phone number as the active one. Begin by opening Settings and navigating to Cellular. Here, check if your phone lists two SIM cards that share the same number.
If you find an inactive SIM, remove it from your device. For physical SIM cards, eject the SIM tray and take out the inactive card. If the inactive SIM is an eSIM, tap “Delete eSIM” to remove it from your device. Removing the duplicate SIM eliminates the conflict causing iMessage activation to fail.
After deleting the inactive SIM, reactivate iMessage. Go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Send & Receive. Tap your valid phone number to prompt iMessage activation. This process should restore full iMessage functionality on your iPhone.
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Following these steps resolves the common iMessage activation errors linked to duplicate SIMs. Apple’s clear instructions help users avoid confusion and regain messaging services quickly. If problems persist, users can contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Looking ahead, Apple’s responsiveness in addressing these bugs with timely updates and detailed guidance demonstrates its commitment to improving user experience. As iOS continues to evolve, monitoring user feedback and releasing fixes will remain crucial for smooth performance. For now, removing inactive duplicate SIMs offers a practical, effective solution to restore iMessage on iOS 26 devices.
