It's incredibly annoying when your iPhone 17e won't send pictures. You might see a "Not Delivered" alert, or the photo just hangs while sending. This guide walks through the best fixes to get your photos moving again.
Why Your iPhone 17e Might Not Send Pictures
The problem could be on your end or with the recipient. If the other person doesn't have iMessage, your photos won't send as blue bubbles. In that case, try sending as a traditional text message.
If a contact has switched from an iPhone to an Android but kept their number, ask them to deregister that number from iMessage.
How to Fix Picture Sending Problems
1. Look at Your Cellular Data
If you're not on WiFi, ensure mobile data is turned on:
- Open Settings and tap Cellular.
- Make sure the Cellular Data switch is on.
2. Switch to 4G or LTE
Using 4G or LTE often provides faster speeds, which can help pictures send:
- Go to Settings > Cellular.
- Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Select Voice & Data.
- Choose 4G or LTE.
3. Test Your Internet Connection
On WiFi:
- Check for the WiFi icon in the status bar.
- If not connected, turn WiFi off and back on.
- Try restarting your router by unplugging it for a minute.
On cellular data:
- Ensure you have good signal bars.
- Move to an area with better reception.
4. Correct Date & Time
Wrong date and time settings can mess with messages:
- Navigate to Settings > General > Date & Time.
- Turn on "Set Automatically."
5. Turn On MMS Messaging
MMS is needed to send pictures via standard text:
- Go to Settings > Messages.
- Make sure MMS Messaging is enabled.
- If you don't see it, ensure "Send as SMS" is on.
6. Check iMessage Status
If messages are green, iMessage might be off:
- Open Settings > Messages.
- Tap the iMessage switch to turn it off, wait a moment, then turn it back on.
7. Restart Your iPhone 17e
A quick restart can clear up temporary glitches. Use the standard restart or a force restart if needed:
- Hold the Side button and either volume button, then slide to power off.
- For a force restart, quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
8. Adjust Voice & Data Settings
Changing network modes can sometimes help:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data.
- Switch between 4G and 3G.
- See if your connection improves.
9. Close and Reopen Messages
Force quit the app to refresh it:
- From the Home Screen, swipe up from the bottom and pause to enter the app switcher.
- Swipe up on the Messages app preview to close it.
- Reopen the app and try sending again.
10. Update Carrier Settings
These updates can improve network performance:
- Make sure you're connected to the internet.
- Go to Settings > General > About.
- If an update is available, a prompt will appear.
11. Refresh Your Apple ID
Signing out and back in can fix iMessage problems:
- Go to Settings and tap your name at the top.
- Scroll down and select Sign Out.
- Restart your phone, then sign back in.
12. Check Send & Receive Addresses
Verify where your iMessages are sent:
- Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
- Under "You can receive iMessages to and reply from," ensure your phone number and/or email are selected.
13. Enable Data Roaming Abroad
If you're traveling outside your country, you may need this:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options.
- Turn on Data Roaming.
- Be aware of potential extra charges from your carrier.
14. Turn Off Low Data Mode
This mode restricts background data and can block photo sending:
- Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options.
- Make sure Low Data Mode is disabled.
15. Install iOS Updates
Software updates include important bug fixes. Keep your iPhone 17e updated:
- Connect to WiFi and plug in your device.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Download and install any available updates.
16. Reset Network Settings
This returns all network settings to their defaults:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset.
- Select Reset Network Settings and enter your passcode.
- Note: This will erase saved WiFi networks and passwords.
17. Reset All Settings
If all else fails, try this as a last step before contacting support:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset.
- Choose Reset All Settings and confirm with your passcode.
- This won't delete your photos or apps, but it will reset all your preferences.
Begin with the easy checks like your internet connection and a simple restart. If the issue persists, work your way through the more involved steps until your pictures send successfully.