There are three types of group messages that you might see: group iMessage, group MMS, and group SMS. The Messages app automatically chooses the type of group message to send based on settings, network connection, and carrier plan. For example:
- If you and your recipients are using Apple devices and iMessage is turned on, then the group message is sent as an iMessage. If you can't turn on or sign in to iMessage or FaceTime - Apple ... If you can't turn on or sign in to iMessage or FaceTime - Apple ...
- If you send a group message to people who are on Android, then the message is sent as an MMS or SMS message. Check if you have an SMS plan enabled by your carrier for the SIM/eSIM that you use on your device. Apple Inc does not provide SMS services. You need to contact your Carrier to enable SMS and/or MMS.
iMessage (Blue) -
- iPhone to iPhone: requires internet (Either over WiFi or Cellular Service) as it is sent over internet protocol. Needs Activation on your device.
- iPhone to Android: Not available
SMS/MMS (Green) -
- iPhone to Android: does not require any internet it is sent over cellular voice protocol. Needs to be enabled by your Carrier for the SIM used by you.
- iPhone to iPhone: When iMessage is not activated or the device is not connected to the internet either over cellular or WiFi
- You need to have an SMS/MMS plan enabled by your carrier for the SIM/eSIM that you use on your device. Apple Inc does not provide SMS/MMS services.
It will turn from Blue to Green if you have enabled "Send as SMS" and whenever your iPhone is not connected to the internet it is sent as SMS (green) to all iPhone users.
