Using iMessage with Cellular Data turned off

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Level 1

4 points

Using iMessage with Cellular Data turned off

I turned off "Cellular Data" and found, contrary to the above explanation, that iMessages aren't delivered, but sent as SMS. Has anyone been able to send it as an iMessage?

iPhone 4, iOS 5.1.1

Posted on Jul 6, 2012 7:46 AM

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Answer 1

whatheck

Level 5

4,141 points

Jul 6, 2012 7:57 AM in response to john.bat

Are you sending the message to another person with an iPhone running iOS 5? If not, the message will be sent as a SMS.

iOS: About Messages

iMessage

iMessage allows you to send unlimited text, photos, videos, locations, and contacts using Wi-Fi or 3G^* from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to other iOS 5 users. For more information on how to use iMessage, see the user guide for your iOS device.

A valid Apple ID is required to use iMessage on iPad and iPod touch. A valid phone number or Apple ID is required to use iMessage on iPhone.

Note: On iPhone, if iMessage is unavailable, the message may be sent as SMS or MMS, depending on content. Carrier messaging rates may apply. You can turn this on or off in iPhone at Settings > Messages > Send As SMS. Messages sent using iMessage will appear in a light blue bubble, while messages sent using SMS or MMS will appear in a green bubble.

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Answer 2

john.bat Author

Level 1

4 points

Jul 6, 2012 8:02 AM in response to whatheck

I'm doing a test before taking a trip abroad where I don't want to use or pay for data. I turned off "Cellular Data" on my iPhone and sent messages to another iPhone and iPad, both of which are set up for iMessage. When I send, it shows as the "green" bubble for SMS rather than the "blue" bubble for iMessage.

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Answer 3

Jul 6, 2012 8:05 AM in response to john.bat

You need to have an Internet connection to use iMessage. If you turn off Cellular Data you must have an active WiFi connection or the phone will default to SMS, which does not use Cellular Data. SMS messages use the carrier's signaling channel. That's why phones that don't have any cellular data capability can still send and receive SMS.

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