Wi-Fi, cellular & Bluetooth

Can't send photos or videos in text messages

This is usually caused by MMS settings, a weak data connection, or a file being too large rather than a phone hardware issue. Checking MMS settings and file size fixes most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–15 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0

Symptoms

  • Photo attachment fails to send with an error
  • Message sends as text but the image doesn't go through
  • Works over Wi-Fi but not cellular, or vice versa
  • Video specifically fails while photos work

Likely causes

  • CommonMMS (multimedia messaging) not enabled or configured correctlySending pictures over regular texting requires MMS settings to be properly set up with your carrier.
  • CommonWeak cellular data connectionMMS requires an active data connection, and a weak one can cause sends to fail or time out.
  • PossibleFile size too large for MMS limitsCarriers often cap MMS attachment sizes, and modern high-resolution photos or videos can exceed this.
  • PossibleRecipient's phone or carrier not supporting the message type sent (like RCS)Some newer messaging features aren't universally supported yet between different carriers or phone types.
  • Less commonCarrier account restriction on MMSCertain prepaid or restricted plans may not include MMS by default.

What to do

  1. Check that cellular data is turned on, since MMS typically requires it even alongside Wi-Fi.
  2. Try sending over Wi-Fi with iMessage/RCS enabled, or over cellular data with regular MMS, to compare.
  3. Reduce the photo or video quality/size before sending, since large files can fail to send via MMS.
  4. Check your carrier's MMS settings are correctly configured (usually automatic, but sometimes needs an APN reset).
  5. Restart the phone.
  6. Test sending to a different contact to rule out a recipient-specific issue.
  7. Check for a carrier settings update.
  8. If MMS consistently fails to send despite good signal and reasonable file size, contact your carrier to confirm MMS is enabled on your plan.

When to call a pro

If MMS consistently fails despite good signal and normal file sizes, contact your carrier to confirm the feature is properly enabled on your account.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.