How to send a text message on iPhone

What you will learn

In this guide, you will learn how to send a text message on your iPhone using the Messages app. You can use this to send a quick message to family, friends, or anyone in your contacts.

What you need

• An iPhone (any model)
• The phone number of the person you want to message (or they must be in your contacts)

The steps

Step 1: Open the Messages app

Find the Messages app on your home screen. It has a green icon with a white speech bubble. Tap on it.

Step 2: Start a new message

Tap the compose button in the top right corner. It looks like a small square with a pencil. This opens a new blank message.

Step 3: Enter the recipient

At the top of the screen, you will see a To: field. Type the person’s name (if they are in your contacts) or their phone number. Tap on their name when it appears in the suggestions below.

Step 4: Type your message

Tap the text field at the bottom of the screen where it says iMessage or Text Message. The keyboard will appear. Type what you want to say.

Step 5: Tap the send button

When your message is ready, tap the blue arrow button to the right of the text field. Your message will be sent. You will see it appear in a blue or green bubble on the screen.

Helpful tips

• Reply to an existing conversation: If you have already messaged someone before, find their name in the Messages list and tap on it to continue the conversation.
• Voice-to-text: If typing is difficult, tap and hold the microphone icon on the keyboard and speak your message. The phone will type it for you.
• Delete a message: Press and hold on a message bubble, then tap More, select the message, and tap the trash icon to delete it.