Messages app won't open, looks white after iOS 26.3 update

Just updated to iOS 26.3 and now the message app won’t open and hasn’t downloaded properly. It’s white with grey lines through it

iPhone 16 Pro, iOS 26

Posted on Feb 25, 2026 3:51 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 25, 2026 3:56 PM

Try and Force Restart your iPhone EXACTLY as shown below and see whether that resolves the issue:

  • Press and quickly release Volume UP button
  • Press and quickly release Volume DOWN button
  • Press and Hold the SIDE button until an Apple logo appears and then release the Side button (Can take up to 20 seconds. (DO NOT release Side Button when invited to Slide Power OFF). 


Axel F.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 25, 2026 3:56 PM in response to Kb19_77

Try and Force Restart your iPhone EXACTLY as shown below and see whether that resolves the issue:

  • Press and quickly release Volume UP button
  • Press and quickly release Volume DOWN button
  • Press and Hold the SIDE button until an Apple logo appears and then release the Side button (Can take up to 20 seconds. (DO NOT release Side Button when invited to Slide Power OFF). 


Axel F.

Messages app won't open, looks white after iOS 26.3 update

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.