Correcting a typo or sending a flawed message is a hassle for anyone. It’s both humiliating and inconvenient. Thankfully, with iOS 16, iPhone users can unsend previously sent messages. It’s a helpful tool that will spare you the embarrassment of having to delete and resend a message because of a typo. However, like with any upgrade, there may be times when you are unable to unsend messages. This article answers the question, “Why can’t I unsend a message on iMessage IOS 16?” We will explain in detail the errors that prevent you from unsending messages, along with actionable and effective solutions for resolving them.
Can iOS 16 Messages Be Unsent?
The most recent update to iOS 16, a commendable operating system, allows iPhone users to unsend and edit a message that has already been sent. Within 15 minutes of sending a message, if you notice an error and want to correct it, you can do so. To do this:
- Tap and hold the message until a drop-down menu appears.
- Select “Edit an already sent message”
Additionally, you may choose to unsend the message instead. However, this is only possible within two minutes of sending. When you choose unsend, the recipient will be unable to read the message.
Why Can’t I Unsend a Message on iMessage IOS 16?
You have probably wondered, “Why can’t I unsend or edit my iPhone messages?” There are numerous causes for this problem and they include:
- Wrong Message: The unsend and edit functions are exclusive to iMessage. This means that you will not be able to use these features if you send SMS or MMS messages by accident.
- Wrong System Software: These features are only compatible with iOS 16 and later.
- Error on Apple’s Server: It may be Apple’s fault if it occurs during the maintenance period.
- It may be from the Recipient’s End: When the recipient disables iMessage, you will be unable to unsend or modify your messages. The same holds true for his Android smartphone.
- You have exceeded the allotted time: Remember that both the unsend and edit functions have time limits. You can only edit sent messages 15 minutes and 2 minutes after sending, respectively.
How to Fix Non-Working Edit and Unsend Messages on iMessage IOS 16
You’re in luck if you’re one of the unfortunate iPhone users who cannot edit or unsend iMessages. We have provided the most effective solutions to this issue below!
#1. Keep in mind the 15-Minute Rule
Always keep in mind the 15-minute rule. You are unable to edit a message after 15 minutes have passed! If the message has been sent for at least an hour, the best course of action is to apologize to the recipient for sending a typo or incorrect message.
We recognize the extent of the disappointment. However, it is a limitation you must accept.
#2. Activate iPhone iMessage
As previously stated, the edit and unsend features are exclusive to iMessage. When using iMessage, the color of the message bubble will be blue. If it is green, it is a text message only. To determine whether you have enabled iMessage, you can take the following steps:
- Open the Settings application.
- Find Messages and click it.
- Ensure that the iMessage button is enabled.
#3. Check the Network
iMessage requires an internet connection to function. Therefore, in order to edit or cancel a message, your iPhone must be connected to the network. If the internet connection is unstable or weak for more than 15 minutes, the message cannot be edited. Take the following steps to fix this:
- Try resetting the Internet by turning it off and on
- Troubleshoot your cellular network
- Try resetting the network settings on your iPhone.
#4. Toggle the Airplane Mode on and off
The Airplane Mode is one of the quickest solutions to this problem. Here are some tips for using it to resolve the unsend and edit message issue:
On Touch ID:
- Activate the Control Center by swiping up from the bottom.
- Select the Airplane Mode button.
- Wait a few seconds and tap to turn it off.
On Face ID:
- Swipe down the display to access the Control Center.
- Tap on Airplane Mode.
- Click it again after a brief delay to disable Airplane Mode.
After activating and deactivating the Airplane Mode:
- Return to the Messages application.
- Tap and hold the message to retain it. Check if the Undo Send button is now visible.
- If the button is visible, tap on it. The message will disappear automatically with a creative animation.
#5. Force Quit iMessage
Force-quitting also works when a specific application is malfunctioning. Try the following to resolve the issue:
If your iPhone is equipped with Touch ID
- Press the Home button twice. This will open your phone’s application switcher.
- Swipe up on the Messages application to force quit it.
If your iPhone is equipped with Face ID
- Swipe up from the home bar on the phone.
- Hold to the center of the screen.
- Swipe up the app card for the messaging app to force quit it.
Next, relaunch the Messages application: Go to the specific message you wish to unsend, press and hold it, and then click Undo Send.
#6. Upgrade to the Most Recent Version of iOS
Messages sent via iMessage cannot be edited or unsent until iOS 16 or later is installed. Remember that the iOS version of the recipient must also be updated for these features to function.
The steps below will assist you in upgrading your operating system to iOS 16 or a later version:
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down and Click on General
- Tap Software Update
- Tap Download and Install to update the iOS version on your device.
#7. Sign out of your Apple ID account and Sign in Again
Try signing out of your Apple ID and then signing back in. There is no need to be concerned about losing sensitive data or media. Follow the below step-by-step guide to get this done.
- Open the Settings application.
- Tap your profile and then tap Sign Out.
- If the Sign-Out icon is colored grey, the Screen Time Passcode must be disabled. You can accomplish this by scrolling down the Settings app and selecting Screen Time.
- You will be directed to a screen containing a list of all essential data, applications, and services. Toggle each file, application, or service to keep. Afterward, tap Sign Out.
Conclusion
By introducing message editing and the option to unsend, the most recent version of iOS 16 has eliminated any anxiety caused by sending an incorrect message. Currently, you can edit or delete your message with a single click.
However, if you encounter problems with these features, try the solutions in this guide.
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