apple watch 3 not sending/receiving any messages, including imessages when phone isn't nearby

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Level 1

5 points

apple watch 3 not sending/receiving any messages, including imessages when phone isn't nearby

I first tested my watch by turning my phone completely off and making a call, which worked. I then tried to send an iMessage through the watch with my phone off, and it would not send. I then tried turning the phone on and leaving the area so my watch would have to connect with LTE and (once I was sure it was properly connected to LTE) I tried to send another test to no avail. I then went into my settings and turned iMessages off for a few seconds and then turned it back on and tried again. Nope. Does anyone have any suggestions for what else I could look into? I have turned both devices off and on again, so if that was your fix, I already tried it!! ;-)

Apple Watch Series 3, iOS 4.1

Posted on Nov 16, 2017 6:45 AM

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Answer 1

Jonathan UK

Level 10

163,769 points

Nov 16, 2017 6:47 AM in response to annajade24

Hi

It may help to follow the instructions here, including under the heading "Get help if you can't send or receive messages" and including unpairing and re-pairing your Apple Watch if necessary:

Read and reply to messages with your Apple Watch - Apple Support

Keep in mind that the functions that are available on your Apple Watch when it is away from your iPhone depend on various factors including:

Your Apple Watch model:
Apple Watch - Compare - Apple
The features of your carrier service plan:
- Apple Watch - Carriers - Apple
- Make a call with Wi-Fi Calling - Apple Support
The type of connectivity that is available to your Apple Watch at the time:
About Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular on your Apple Watch - Apple Support

Features and requirements that apply under various circumstances are detailed here, including within the footnotes #1 and #2:

How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby - Apple Support

If you still need help, then I suggest that you contact your carrier in the first instance.

If the issues persist, then, depending on your carrier's advice, I suggest that you next contact Apple Support (remote diagnostics and/or mail-in service may be available, if required), make a Genius Bar reservation or visit an Apple Authorised Service Provider for assistance:

US: Apple Watch Service Answer Center - Apple Support
Elsewhere: Apple - Support

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