If you’re seeing an “iMessage Signed Out” error on your iPhone, you’re not alone. This issue can prevent you from sending or receiving messages through Apple’s iMessage service. Fortunately, it’s usually easy to fix.
In most cases, simply toggling iMessage off and back on, restarting your device, or checking your internet connection resolves the problem. Below, we’ll walk you through all the effective solutions step by step.
Why Does iMessage Say Signed Out?
There are several common reasons why iMessage may sign you out:
- Poor or no internet connection
- Incorrect date and time settings
- iOS software bugs or outdated software
- Apple ID authentication issues
- Network configuration errors
Let’s go through the fixes in order, starting with the simplest.
1. Toggle iMessage Off and On
This is often the quickest and most effective fix.
How to do it:
- Open Settings
- Tap Messages
- Toggle iMessage off
- Wait about 30 seconds
- Toggle iMessage back on
Give it a minute to reactivate. You may be prompted to enter your Apple ID password.
2. Restart Your iPhone
Restarting your device refreshes system processes and can resolve temporary glitches.
To restart:
- iPhone with Face ID:
Press and hold the Side button + Volume button, then slide to power off. - iPhone with Home button:
Press and hold the Power button, then slide to power off.
Wait 30 seconds, then turn your phone back on and check iMessage again.
3. Check Your Internet Connection
iMessage requires an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
Make sure:
- Wi-Fi is connected and working
- Cellular data is enabled (Settings > Cellular)
- Airplane Mode is turned off
Try opening Safari and loading a website to confirm your connection is active.
4. Set Date & Time to Automatic
Incorrect date and time settings can prevent Apple’s servers from authenticating your device.
Fix it:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Select Date & Time
- Turn on Set Automatically
If it’s already enabled, toggle it off and back on.
5. Sign Out and Back Into Your Apple ID
Sometimes the issue is tied to your Apple ID session.
Steps:
- Go to Settings
- Tap your Apple ID name at the top
- Scroll down and tap Sign Out
- Restart your iPhone
- Sign back in
After signing in again, re-enable iMessage in Settings > Messages.
6. Update iOS
An outdated iOS version can cause bugs, including iMessage sign-out errors.
To update:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Download and install any available updates
Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery before updating.
7. Reset Network Settings
If the issue persists, resetting network settings can help resolve hidden connectivity problems.
⚠️ This will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings.
To reset:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Scroll to Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset
- Select Reset Network Settings
After your iPhone restarts, reconnect to Wi-Fi and test iMessage.
8. Check Apple’s System Status
Sometimes the problem isn’t on your end.
Visit Apple’s System Status page and check if iMessage is experiencing outages. If there’s a server issue, you’ll need to wait until Apple resolves it.
9. Contact Apple Support
If none of the above solutions work, there may be a deeper issue with your Apple ID or device. Contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Quick Fix Summary
If you just want the fastest solution, try this:
✅ Toggle iMessage off and on
✅ Restart your iPhone
✅ Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data
✅ Set Date & Time to Automatic
In most cases, one of these steps fixes the problem immediately.
Final Thoughts
The “iMessage Signed Out” error can be frustrating, but it’s usually caused by minor connection or settings issues. Start with simple fixes like toggling iMessage and restarting your phone before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting steps like resetting network settings.
By following the steps above, you should be able to restore iMessage and get back to messaging without further issues.
