How to Fix the “iMessage Is Signed Out” Error on Your Apple Device

  • Restart your device to clear any temporary glitches
  • Check your internet connection and ensure iMessage is enabled in Settings
  • Sign out of your Apple ID and sign back in to refresh your iMessage account
  • Reset your Network Settings to fix any underlying connectivity issues
  • Update to the latest iOS version to apply any relevant bug fixes

The “iMessage is Signed Out” error can be incredibly frustrating, preventing you from sending or receiving messages through Apple’s convenient messaging service. However, don’t panic – this issue is often caused by minor glitches or connectivity problems that can be resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

First things first, let’s start with the easiest solution: a good old-fashioned restart. This simple action can clear out any temporary bugs or glitches that might be causing the iMessage signed out error. Just hold down the power button and follow the prompts to restart your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Check Your Internet Connection

iMessage relies on a stable internet connection to function properly. If you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your Wi-Fi or cellular data, it could be the root cause of the problem. Head to your device’s Settings app and ensure that both Wi-Fi and cellular data are enabled and connected.

If you’re still having trouble, try turning Wi-Fi off and back on again, or even forget the network and reconnect. For cellular data, you might need to toggle Airplane Mode on and off to reset the connection.

Enable iMessage in Settings

It’s also possible that iMessage has been accidentally disabled in your device’s Settings. To check, go to Settings > Messages and ensure that the iMessage toggle is turned on (it should be green). If it’s off, simply tap the toggle to enable it.

Sign Out and Back In

Sometimes, the issue lies with your Apple ID and iMessage account itself. To refresh your account, you can sign out of iMessage and then sign back in. Here’s how:

  1. Open Settings and tap on your name at the top.
  2. Scroll down and tap “Sign Out” at the bottom.
  3. Confirm by entering your Apple ID password.
  4. Once signed out, restart your device.
  5. After restarting, go back to Settings and sign in with your Apple ID again.
  6. Check if iMessage is now working properly.

Reset Network Settings

If you’re still experiencing the iMessage signed out error, it’s time to take more drastic measures. Resetting your device’s network settings can resolve any underlying connectivity issues that might be causing problems with iMessage.

To reset network settings:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad.
  2. Tap “Reset” and then select “Reset Network Settings.”
  3. Enter your device passcode to confirm.
  4. Your device will reset all network settings, including Wi-Fi passwords, VPN settings, and cellular data settings.
  5. After the reset, reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and check if iMessage is working.

Update to the Latest iOS Version

If none of the above steps have worked, it’s possible that the issue is related to a bug in your current iOS version. Apple regularly releases software updates to address such issues, so it’s always a good idea to keep your device up-to-date.

To check for and install the latest iOS update:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  2. If an update is available, tap “Download and Install.”
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the update process.
  4. Once your device has updated, check if the iMessage signed out error has been resolved.

Contact Apple Support

If you’ve tried all of the above steps and the iMessage signed out error persists, it’s time to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or identify any underlying issues with your account or device.

You can contact Apple Support through the following channels:

  • Visit the Apple Support website and start a chat or schedule a call with a support representative.
  • Call Apple Support directly at 1-800-MY-APPLE (1-800-692-7753).
  • Make an appointment at your nearest Apple Store and have a Genius Bar technician take a look at your device.

FAQ

Why does my iMessage keep signing out?

There could be several reasons why your iMessage keeps signing out, including connectivity issues, software bugs, incorrect settings, or problems with your Apple ID account. Following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article can help resolve the issue.

What does it mean when iMessage says “Signed Out”?

When iMessage displays the “Signed Out” error, it means that your device has been disconnected from the iMessage service, preventing you from sending or receiving messages through iMessage. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as connectivity problems, software glitches, or account issues.

Can I still send regular text messages if iMessage is signed out?

Yes, even if iMessage is signed out, you can still send and receive regular SMS text messages on your iPhone. However, you won’t be able to take advantage of iMessage’s additional features, such as sending messages over Wi-Fi, sharing your location, or seeing when someone is typing.

How do I know if iMessage is enabled on my device?

To check if iMessage is enabled on your device, go to Settings > Messages and look for the iMessage toggle switch. If it’s green and turned on, iMessage is enabled. If it’s grayed out or turned off, you’ll need to enable it by tapping the toggle switch.

Can I use iMessage with an email address instead of my phone number?

Yes, you can use an email address associated with your Apple ID to sign in to iMessage instead of your phone number. To do this, go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive and select your email address from the list.