Q: text messaging only when iPhone is on
Why does my phone need to be on to get text messaging on iPad and Mac? if phone isn't on messages don't come though. I have turned off each device and turned each one back on.
thanks
iPad 2
Posted on Apr 30, 2016 7:44 AM
No. Text messaging, or SMS, is something handled by a cellular phone. In the past it was only capable of being done on the phone, and some computer programs that would connect directly with a phone via wire.
With the newer iOS and ability with the Mac computers, you have the ability to setup Text Message forwarding with your iPhone to allow you to use SMS as well as iMessage with those other devices. It requires the devices to be linked to the phone as long as they are signed in with the same Apple ID and on the same Wi-Fi network. However, since SMS requires a cellular connection, it will only function if the phone is nearby and powered on.
See the SMS section of this support document for help. Use Continuity to connect your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac - Apple Support
Posted on Apr 30, 2016 9:40 AM