How to tell if incoming messages are iMessage or SMS?

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Level 1

4 points

How to tell if incoming messages are iMessage or SMS?

I know that if I send a message I can tell if it's iMessage or SMS if it's blue vs green.

HOWEVER, how do I tell if the message that I received from someone else (like in a group chat of all iPhone users) is a iMessage or SMS? Like say if they sent it with no WiFi or data?

I'd like to be able to at least monitor this, as I have moved internationally and want to make sure folks texting me via iMessage are not charged.

Thanks

Posted on May 4, 2024 9:48 AM

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Answer 1

SravanKrA

Level 10

432,900 points

May 4, 2024 9:49 AM in response to chetel87

You can't tell.

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.

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How to tell if incoming messages are iMessage or SMS?

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