Green vs blue messages on iPhone: what the colors mean
Blue means iMessage between Apple devices. Green means a regular text, usually because the other person is on Android.
The three kinds of text
- iMessage (blue): Apple to Apple, over Wi-Fi or data, encrypted.
- RCS (green): modern texting with Android, with typing dots and full quality photos.
- SMS and MMS (green): basic texts over the cell network, no encryption.
The fix
Get blue bubbles back
- 1
Make sure both of you have Wi-Fi or data.
- 2
Turn on iMessage in Settings › Apps › Messages.
- 3
Delete the chat and start a new one with their number.
Frequently asked questions
Why did an iPhone contact turn green?
One of you has no data, iMessage is off, or they switched to Android. It can also happen when iMessage is briefly down.
Are green messages less secure?
SMS is not encrypted. RCS between iPhone and Android can be encrypted on recent versions, and iMessage always is.
Related guides
Android safe mode
Safe mode starts Android with only built-in apps so you can find a bad app. How to turn it on, how to turn it off, and what to do if your phone is stuck in it.
Charging overnight
Charging your phone overnight is safe with a good charger, and built-in features limit battery wear. Heat is the real risk, so here is how to charge safely.