iOS 26: Fixing iMessage issues after switching iPhones — eSIM setup can matter

With the rollout of iOS 26 and increasing eSIM use, Apple has updated a support document warning that skipping eSIM configuration during the initial setup of a new iPhone can lead to problems with iMessage. Users who postpone eSIM setup and add it later via Settings may find iMessage won’t activate or send/receive messages as expected.

Apple’s update highlights a common setup mistake and offers steps users can try to restore iMessage functionality. The issue mainly affects transfers to a new iPhone when the eSIM activation step is skipped during the device setup assistant.

• Recommendation: Set up your eSIM during the initial iPhone setup whenever possible to avoid activation issues.
• If you already skipped setup: check Cellular settings to ensure your eSIM/plan is active, toggle iMessage off and on, restart the iPhone, and sign out/in of your Apple ID for Messages if needed.
• Install any pending iOS updates and follow the steps in Apple’s support guidance for activation problems.

For the official guidance, see Apple Support: support.apple.com. You can also read more about the report here: iphone-ticker.de.

Have you run into this after switching phones? Try the steps above and check Apple Support if problems persist.

Discussion: Did you set up eSIM during setup or add it later — and did it affect iMessage for you?