How to Fix Delayed Text Messages on iPhone

Basic Fixes:

• Restart your iPhone: Rebooting your iPhone effectively fixes such problems. To do this, turn off your iPhone and restart it. Then, check your messages and see if this fixes the issue.
• Check your internet connection: If your iPhone has network connection issues, you may face delays in receiving text messages. You can check the network bars at the top to ensure enough coverage for a smooth experience.
• Ensure your mobile plan is active: Did your carrier plan expire? You may stop receiving text messages due to an outdated carrier plan. If you have a prepaid connection, purchase another plan from your carrier. Then, check again.
• Check the junk folder: If you have marked a specific recipient as junk, the Messages app sends all their incoming messages to the Junk folder. So, check the Junk folder and ensure your message hasn’t been accidentally slotted there.
• Check for iOS update: Apple updates the Messages app with iOS software builds. An outdated iOS version can be the major culprit here. In this case, install the latest iOS version on your phone.

Fix 1: Turn off Focus Mode

If you have enabled Focus on iPhone, it suspends all instant notifications. It’s essentially a DND mode on iPhone. In this case, turn off any active Focus Mode on your iPhone and see if this fixes the issue. Here’s how.

Step 1: Swipe down from the top-right corner to open the Control Center. Here, long-press on Focus.

Step 2: From the list, turn off the relevant Focus Mode.

Also Read: How to fix iMessage not working on iPhone and iPad

Fix 2: Remove Messages From Scheduled Summary

If you enable Scheduled Summary on your iPhone and add the Messages app, you might receive messages only during convenient hours. In this case, remove Messages from the Scheduled Summary. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Open the Settings app > tap on Notifications.

Step 2: Select Scheduled Summary > disable the Messages toggle from the following menu.  

Fix 3: Reset Network Settings

Incorrect network settings often lead to issues like late messages on your iPhone. iOS offers the option to reset network settings on the go. Here’s how to use it on your iPhone.

Step 1: Open the Settings app > scroll to General > tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 2: Select Reset > tap on Reset Network Settings.

Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process. Then, check your messages for a while to see if the issue has been resolved.