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Apple released iOS 26 last month, and it came with a plethora of bugs. Some users faced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues, while others were unable to activate iMessage.
Apple released a fix for the first two issues with the iOS 26.0.1 update last week and provided reasons and solutions for the iMessage issue this week. In a support document, Apple says the issue might stem from having an inactive SIM with the same phone number as your active SIM.
Signs of a broken iMessage, according to Apple, include a “Not Delivered” alert for failed messages, messages only being sent in green bubbles as SMS or RCS, messages getting sent with your email address, and the same phone number being displayed twice in Settings > Apps > Messages > Send & Receive. Note that you’ll find two sections here, and what Apple probably means is not having the number repeated in the same section.
How to Fix iMessage Activation Issue on iOS 26
To resolve the iMessage activation issue, Apple recommends removing or deleting your inactive SIM—if you have one—and then activating iMessage once again.
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Go to Settings > Cellular and check if there are two SIM cards with the same phone number. If you do see that, remove the inactive SIM from the SIM tray on your phone if it’s a physical one, and tap Delete eSIM in the other case.
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Next, go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Send & Receive and tap your valid phone number to activate iMessage.
If you are unable to activate iMessage after taking these measures, Apple recommends checking your internet connection and ensuring your time zone is set correctly. There are a bunch of other general solutions and tips the company suggests when iMessage activation fails. You can check them out on a separate support page here.
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About Our Expert
Experience
Jibin is a tech news writer based out of Ahmedabad, India. Previously, he served as the editor of iGeeksBlog and is a self-proclaimed tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex information for a broader audience.
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