Overview

• Apple updated its iMessage support document to explain that iMessage will not activate automatically if an eSIM is set up in Settings after the initial iPhone onboarding.
• After activating an eSIM, Apple instructs users to go to Settings, tap Apps, open Messages, and turn iMessage off and back on to restore normal operation.
• Affected users may see Not Delivered alerts, messages sent as SMS/RCS in green bubbles, or iMessages originating from an email address instead of a phone number.
• The issue primarily affects people who skipped eSIM activation during initial device setup and can also affect those who add a new eSIM later when switching carriers.
• Reporters note this is at least the second iMessage activation problem tied to iOS 26 that Apple has addressed with updated troubleshooting guidance.