iPhone does not send SMS - what to do?

If your iPhone no longer sends SMS, this can be due to the iPhone, the SIM card or the mobile operator. We'll show you how to solve the problem.

iPhone: SMS are no longer sent

Note: If the messages appear blue and not green, your messages will be sent via iMessage. If this is the case, read on in this practical tip.

Restart: Turn the iPhone off completely and then on again. If it is only a temporary error, the problem has already been solved.
SIM: Remove the SIM card from the iPhone, gently wipe the contacts and briefly blow into the SIM slot. Then reinsert the SIM.
Call: Also check if you can still make calls. If this is also not possible, the problem is not limited to SMS.
Configuration: You can request a configuration SMS from almost all mobile operators. This SMS contains all the important information for your SIM card so that it can work properly (see picture).
Defect: If the following steps do not help you, the SIM card may be defective. In this case, contact your mobile operator.

If you bought your iPhone with a contract, you may have to activate the device to send SMS messages from other SIM cards. This can be done with a simple code.
Open the phone app and enter the code * 222 # as a Telekom customer and * 133 # as a Vodafone customer. Call the code, you should receive a confirmation of the activation.

At best, the problem is with your wireless service provider. If there is a power failure, this can lead to problems when sending SMS.
In the following practical tips on Vodafone, Telekom, O2 and E-Plus you will find further tips on how to identify problems with the provider and which solutions are available.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to listen to FM radio with your iPhone.