SMS text sync issue and iMessages in iClo… (2024)

FAQs

Why are my text messages not syncing on iCloud? ›

If your messages aren't syncing, check the requirements for Messages in iCloud and make sure your devices are up to date. See the Apple Support articles System requirements for iCloud, Update your iPhone or iPad, or Update macOS on Mac.

Text Message Forwarding: Turning on Messages in iCloud should keep message history synced across all your devices, including green bubble SMS/MMS text messages.

This would most likely happen if either you or your recipient are in an area with a poor internet connect, or no internet connection. Without access to the internet, iMessage is unable to process the message and so your phone defaults to sending as a text message instead.

When you set up iCloud for Messages, your messages are stored in the cloud, with only the most recently accessed Messages stored locally on your device. You can see them on any device that is set up for iCloud and Messages, including your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac.

Check if both devices have a good network connection. Restart Devices: Sometimes, simply restarting both devices can help resolve temporary glitches that may be causing the delay. Check Storage: If your iCloud storage is full, it could prevent new messages from syncing.

On top of the Settings menu, tap your name (Apple ID) to go to iCloud; Next, tap on "iCloud"; Scroll down and find "Apps Using iCloud"; Open iCloud Drive and confirm you are signed in to the same iCloud account and check the box – enable messages in iCloud.

Messages in iCloud is generally recommended if you appreciate a simplified communication experience across your devices and have ample local storage space. However, turning off Messages from iCloud can be a good alternative if you frequently encounter iCloud storage limitation issues and prefer offline access.

On the Apps & Data screen, tap Restore from iCloud Backup and sign in to iCloud with your Apple® ID. Go to Choose backup and select from the list of iCloud backups. Each one should have a date and size. Choose the last backup before you deleted the text messages to recover them.

When you receive a text from iCloud instead of a phone number, it's likely because the sender has enabled the option to send messages from their iCloud account, iMessage feature is disabled, the device's settings issues, or network connection problems.

If your carrier charges you for text messages, you can save money by turning off SMS messages on your iPhone. When you disable SMS, the iMessage system automatically takes over, and sends and receives messages using your cellular or Wi-Fi data connection.

Why are all my text messages not coming through? ›

Problems with your device can affect your ability to successfully receive text messages. These challenges might include incompatible devices, outdated software, and insufficient storage capacity, all of which could lead to instances where users cannot receive text messages as expected.

Synced messages will all be viewable in the Messages app, whether you're using an iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, or Mac. You can only sync your text messages to iCloud on Apple devices.

iCloud backups include all the information and settings stored on your device that don't already sync to iCloud. iCloud backups don't include: Data that you already store and sync in iCloud, like Contacts, Calendars, and Notes. Photos, if you turned on iCloud Photos.

Way 2: Make Sure iCloud Backup Is Enabled

Here's how to check or toggle your iCloud Backup: Step 1: Go to Settings > iCloud. Step 2: Turn on iCloud Backup. Once you set it up, local data will be backed up to iCloud automatically.

Make sure you're signed in to iCloud with the same Apple ID on all of your devices. Then check you've turned on Contacts, Calendars and Reminders in your iCloud settings. Check that the date and time settings on your device are correct for your current location.

Make sure you've turned on Mail in Settings on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Tap Settings > [your name] > iCloud and turn on Mail. Make sure new data is being pushed to your device automatically. In iOS 14 or later, tap Settings > Mail > Accounts > Fetch New Data, then turn on Push.

Fix 1: Switch the Messages on iCloud feature

You can turn it off and on again to reset the option even if it is switched on. To fix the downloading of messages from iCloud being stuck, unlock your iPhone, and go to its Settings > Messages. Here, you can find the “Messages on iCloud” feature that must be turned on.