iMessage is Apple’s native messaging service that allows you to send texts, photos, videos, and audio messages over Wi-Fi or cellular data. Unlike standard SMS, iMessages appear in blue bubbles and can be sent between Apple devices for free.
If you’ve just set up your iPhone 13 or iMessage isn’t working, this guide will show you how to enable iMessage quickly and correctly.
Why Enable iMessage on Your iPhone 13?
-
Send messages without SMS charges
-
Share media and documents easily
-
Enjoy encrypted messaging for better security
-
Sync conversations across Apple devices (iPad, Mac, Apple Watch)
Step-by-Step Guide to Turn On iMessage
1. Open the Settings App
Go to your iPhone 13 home screen and tap Settings.
2. Scroll to Messages
In the Settings menu, scroll down and select Messages.
3. Turn On iMessage
Look for the iMessage toggle at the top of the screen.
-
Switch it ON.
-
The toggle will turn green, indicating that iMessage is active.
4. Wait for Activation
After enabling iMessage, your iPhone may take a few moments to activate.
-
Make sure your iPhone has an active internet connection via Wi-Fi or cellular data.
-
You might see a message like “Waiting for activation”; this usually resolves automatically in a few minutes.
5. Set Send & Receive Options
Under the iMessage toggle, you’ll find Send & Receive:
-
Choose which email addresses or phone numbers can send or receive iMessages.
-
You can select multiple emails for syncing across devices.
6. Enable “Send as SMS” (Optional)
If iMessage is unavailable for any reason, your messages can be sent as SMS automatically.
-
Scroll down and toggle Send as SMS ON.
Troubleshooting iMessage Activation Issues
If iMessage doesn’t activate:
-
Check internet connection – Make sure Wi-Fi or cellular data is active.
-
Verify date and time – Go to Settings → General → Date & Time and enable Set Automatically.
-
Sign in to Apple ID – iMessage requires your Apple ID to function. Go to Settings → Messages → Send & Receive.
-
Restart your iPhone – Sometimes a quick restart solves activation delays.
-
Update iOS – Make sure your iPhone 13 is running the latest iOS version.
Final Thoughts
Enabling iMessage on your iPhone 13 is simple but essential for seamless, secure messaging between Apple devices. Once activated, you’ll enjoy free messaging, media sharing, and continuity across all your Apple products.