Why do I get a 'Not delivered' error when I text someone from my iPhone?

If you have an iPhone and get a “Not delivered” message when you send a text, despite the recipient receiving it, your iPhone may not have the correct mobile number saved. This usually impacts customers who insert their new SIM into a new phone and then switch their number over. Don’t panic, we’re here to help:

Updating to the latest version of iOS software provides the latest features, security updates and bug fixes. It’s easy! Here’s how:

1. Open ‘Settings’.

2. Tap ‘General’.

3. Tap ‘Software Update’.

4. If you have an iOS update available, tap ‘Install Now’. If you see ‘Download and Install’ instead, tap it to download the update, enter your passcode, then tap ‘Install Now’. Having issues updating? Check out this Apple Support article for more information.

5. If you see ‘iOS is up to date’ - you’re good to go!

Errors can occur if the Date & Time is set incorrectly on your iPhone. Here’s how to double check:

1. Open ‘Settings’.

2. Tap ‘General’.

3. Tap ‘Date & Time’.

4. Ensure the ‘Set Automatically’ toggle is switched ON.

Sometimes, your iPhone may not have the correct mobile number saved. Follow the steps below to check and update it if needed:

1. Open ‘Settings’.

2. Tap ‘Apps’.

3. Tap ‘Phone’.

4. Tap ‘My Number’.

5. Enter your mobile number, using +44 instead of the first 0.

6. Tap ‘Save’.

Send a test message to see if this has resolved your issue. If not, let’s try the next step.

If you’re using a physical SIM card, remove your iD Mobile SIM, but pop your SIM tray back into your iPhone. If you’re using an eSIM, go to: ‘Settings’ > ‘Mobile Service’ > Select your iD Mobile eSIM → Switch the ‘Turn On This Line’ toggle to OFF. 

Then restart your iPhone. For iPhone 8 and newer, here’s how:

1. Press and quickly release the volume up button.

2. Press and quickly release the volume down button.

3. Press and hold the side button.

4. When the Apple logo appears, release the side button.

If you have an iPhone 7 or older, follow the steps in this Apple Support article to restart your iPhone. Once your iPhone restarts, connect to a stable Wi-Fi network and wait 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, pop your iD Mobile SIM back into your iPhone, or toggle your eSIM back ON. 

The above steps should update the number on your Apple ID; you can check by going into ‘Settings’, selecting your Apple ID at the top of the screen, and tapping ‘Sign-In & Security’. Your new number should appear under ‘Email & Phone Numbers’. If it does, try sending a test message; if not, go to the next troubleshooting step.

If you’ve tried all our steps and still get a ‘Not delivered’ error, try resetting your Network Settings. This won’t delete any personal information from your iPhone, such as Contacts or Photos, but you will have to reconnect to any previously joined Wi-Fi networks. Here’s how:

1. Open ‘Settings’.

2. Tap ‘General’.

3. Tap ‘Transfer or Reset iPhone’.

4. Tap ‘Reset’.

5. Tap ‘Reset Network Settings’.

If none of the above works, simply contact us and we’ll be able to assist.