How do I fix Android text messages not sending?

Updated September 10, 2026 · About 4 minutes · Sound & calls

Steps to check

  1. Check signal and toggle Airplane mode

    If bars are low, move near a window. Toggle Airplane mode on for 15 seconds, then off.

  2. Confirm the default SMS app

    Settings → Apps → Default apps → SMS app. Pick your messaging app and retry a simple text to yourself or a trusted contact.

  3. Clear the messaging app cache

    Settings → Apps → Messages (or your SMS app) → Storage → Clear cache.

  4. Contact the carrier if nothing sends

    If calls work but no SMS sends to anyone, the carrier may need to reset SMS provisioning on your line.

Common questions

Do I need RCS / chat features?

Not for basic SMS. Turn RCS off temporarily if only chat-style messages fail, then retry plain SMS.