Messages between iPhone users normally send as blue iMessages over the internet. Sometimes you may want a green SMS or MMS instead, such as when the other person has iMessage off, has no data connection, or you want the message to use your carrier texting plan.
These steps apply to iOS 17 and iOS 18 in conversations where iMessage is normally active.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if a blue message is not reaching someone, or if you want one message or all messages to go through regular carrier texting instead of iMessage.
Send One Message as Text
- Open Messages and choose the conversation.
- Type the message but do not tap the send arrow yet.
- Touch and hold the send button.
- Choose Send as Text Message.
That message sends as green SMS or MMS. The next message can return to iMessage automatically if iMessage is available.
Turn Off iMessage Completely
- Open Settings.
- Tap Messages.
- Turn off iMessage.
- Confirm any warning. Future messages use SMS/MMS through your carrier until you turn iMessage back on.
How iPhone Chooses Message Type
Automatic Fallback
If the recipient cannot currently receive iMessage, the iPhone may automatically fall back to SMS/MMS and show a green bubble.
Blue Turns Green
A conversation turning green usually means iMessage is unavailable for that person at that moment. It can switch back once their device reconnects or reactivates.
Group Chats
Mixed iPhone and Android group chats often use SMS/MMS or RCS-style carrier messaging because not everyone in the thread supports iMessage.
Data vs Texting Plan
SMS and MMS use your carrier texting service rather than Wi-Fi or mobile data. That can be useful when traveling if texting is included but data is limited.
Sources
- Apple Support: Use iMessage on iPhone
- Apple Support: About iMessage and SMS/MMS
- Apple Support: Set up cellular messaging on iPhone