Can't start iMessage conversations

[NickD]

Since I upgraded to iOS 6, I've been having a major issue with iMessage.

I'm unable to initiate iMessage conversations with other iMessage users. When I draft a message, my iPhone does not recognize that the recipient is an iMessage user. The message sends as an SMS, but when the recipient responds, I receive an iMessage, and then I am able to continue the conversation in iMessage.

Similarly, if someone initiates an iMessage conversation with me, I am able to responds using iMessage, but if I initiate a conversation with that same person, my first message will always be sent as SMS.

I've turned iMessage on and off multiple times, and confirmed that my phone is set to Send and Receive iMessages via my 10-digit phone number.

I've also backed up and then restored my phone.

Any ideas how to remedy this?

 

[bhigh8]

Since I upgraded to iOS 6, I've been having a major issue with iMessage.

I'm unable to initiate iMessage conversations with other iMessage users. When I draft a message, my iPhone does not recognize that the recipient is an iMessage user. The message sends as an SMS, but when the recipient responds, I receive an iMessage, and then I am able to continue the conversation in iMessage.

Similarly, if someone initiates an iMessage conversation with me, I am able to responds using iMessage, but if I initiate a conversation with that same person, my first message will always be sent as SMS.

I've turned iMessage on and off multiple times, and confirmed that my phone is set to Send and Receive iMessages via my 10-digit phone number.

I've also backed up and then restored my phone.

Any ideas how to remedy this?

mine does this also. but also did it on my iphone 4. seems like i need to sms them and they reply and after that im good. but if i delete the text chain and start over it does it again.

 

[NikkiLynn28]

Same problem!

I'm having the exact same problem! So frustrating! Anyone?!?!?

 

[Jaypi]

How do you start your conversation? mail or phone number?

 

[dhlizard]

My iPhone 5 does this occasionally but once a response is received, it reverts to iMessage.
Personally, I see it as an issue with the instability of the iMessage system and all it's outages and failures lately.

http://www.apple.com/support/systemstatus/

 

[NickD]

How do you start your conversation? mail or phone number?

Phone number.

 

[Jaypi]

Try to turn it off, turn WiFi off, turn cellular off, turn cellular on, turn iMessages on.