Having trouble with iMessage not downloading photos? It’s super annoying when you see “Tap to Download” but the image just won’t load. You tap and tap, but nothing happens.
Don’t worry, there are ways to get those images loading again. Here’s how you can fix it:
Method 1: Sign out and back into iMessage
Sometimes, your iMessage account just needs a little refresh. Re-authenticating your Apple ID can clear up any issues with corrupted data, forcing your phone to get the latest info from Apple’s servers.
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Open the Settings app and scroll down to tap on Messages.
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Tap on Send & Receive.
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Tap on your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
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In the pop-up menu, tap Sign Out.
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After signing out, tap on Use your Apple ID for iMessage.
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A prompt will appear; tap on Sign In to log back in with your Apple ID.
Now, try downloading those images again. Did that work?
Method 2: Reset network settings
If that didn’t do the trick, it might be a network issue. Sometimes your phone’s network settings can get a little wonky, and that can stop iMessage from grabbing attachments. A quick reset can often fix this. Just be aware this will reset all of your saved Wi-Fi passwords, cellular settings, and VPN stuff.
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Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on General.
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Scroll down and select Reset.
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Tap on Reset Network Settings.
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Enter your iPhone’s passcode when prompted.
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Confirm the action by tapping Reset Network Settings again. Your iPhone will restart.
Note: Resetting your network settings means you’ll have to reconnect to your Wi-Fi and other network services, so make sure you have that information handy.
After your phone restarts, give iMessage another go.
If neither of these fixes worked, it could be a problem on the sender’s end or maybe a temporary problem with Apple’s servers. It could even be a software bug. As a last thing to try, give your phone a restart - that might just clear up a temporary system glitch.