[11 Fixes] Fix iMessage Not Working on Mac, Not Syncing on Mac

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iMessage is one of the most convenient communication tools for Apple users, offering seamless messaging across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. However, it's not uncommon for users to encounter frustrating issues like messages not syncing, being unable to send or receive texts, or iMessage just not working at all on Mac. Whether you rely on it for work or personal communication, a non-functioning iMessage can disrupt your workflow.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore all possible fixes for iMessage not working or syncing on your Mac - from simple checks to more advanced troubleshooting methods. By following these steps, you can restore smooth message delivery and syncing across all your Apple devices.

Common Symptoms of iMessage Issues on Mac

Before jumping into solutions, it's helpful to identify the specific issue you're experiencing. Here are common symptoms when iMessage isn't working correctly on Mac:

• iMessage not sending or receiving texts on Mac
• Messages appear on iPhone/iPad but not on Mac
• Sync works only partially - some messages show up, others don't
• You're signed in, but iMessage says "Waiting for Activation"
• Can't see your phone number in iMessage settings on Mac

Understanding the root problem helps you apply the most relevant fix.

Preliminary Checks

Start with the basics before diving into advanced fixes.

🔹 Check Internet Connection

A steady internet connection is necessary for iMessage to function. Make sure that your Mac is linked to a dependable wireless network.

🔹 Ensure macOS Is Up to Date

Older macOS versions can cause compatibility issues.

• Go to System Settings > General > Software Update

• Install any available updates

🔹 Verify Apple ID Consistency

Ensure that you are using the same Apple ID for iMessage across all devices:

• On Mac: Open Messages > Settings > iMessage tab
• On iPhone: Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive

Both should show the same Apple ID.

🔹 Check Apple's System Status

Visit Apple's System Status page to ensure iMessage servers are running. If they're down, wait until they're operational again.

11 Fixes for iMessage Not Working on Mac

Fix 1. Sign Out and Back Into iMessage on Mac

A quick sign-out and sign-in can often resolve sync or activation issues.

• Open Messages

• Go to Settings > iMessage

• Click Sign Out

• Restart your Mac
• Sign back in using your Apple ID and password

Wait a few minutes after signing in. Messages should begin to sync if the issue was authentication-related.

Fix 2. Enable Messages in iCloud

Enabling Messages in iCloud is one of the most effective ways to ensure your messages sync consistently between your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and even Apple Watch. This feature stores your entire iMessage history in iCloud, ensuring that all your Apple devices show the same messages at all times.

How to Enable Messages in iCloud on Mac

• Open the Messages app on your Mac.
• In the top menu, click Messages > Settings.
• Navigate to the iMessage tab.
• Check the box next to "Enable Messages in iCloud."

• Click the "Sync Now" button to initiate the manual sync process.

💡 Tip: If the "Sync Now" button is grayed out, uncheck and recheck the "Enable Messages in iCloud" option. Then restart the Messages app.

How to Enable Messages in iCloud on iPhone/iPad

1. On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings.
2. To access Apple ID settings, tap your name at the top.
3. Go to iCloud > Show All.
4. Tap Messages and turn the toggle ON.

This ensures that your iPhone also contributes to the shared message repository in iCloud.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

If enabling Messages in iCloud doesn't immediately sync your messages across devices, try these additional steps:

🔹 Ensure Enough iCloud Storage

Messages in iCloud consumes storage space. If you're low on space, syncing may pause.

• Go to System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > Manage Storage
• Consider upgrading your plan or clearing unused backups and app data.

🔹 Force a Re-Sync

If syncing appears stuck, you can try resetting the sync state:

1. On Mac, uncheck "Enable Messages in iCloud" and quit the Messages app.
2. Reopen Messages, go back to settings, and re-enable the option.
3. Click "Sync Now" again.

Wait a few minutes - messages may take time to reappear depending on your internet speed and message volume.

🔹 Use a Strong Wi-Fi Connection

Avoid syncing large message histories over cellular or unstable Wi-Fi. A fast, consistent internet connection helps complete the sync efficiently.

🔹 Advanced Tip: Monitor iCloud Sync with Activity Monitor

On macOS, you can check if iMessage is syncing using the Activity Monitor:

1. Open Activity Monitor from Utilities via Applications.
2. Search for a process named cloudd.
3. If it's active and consuming CPU/network resources, your iMessages are syncing.

When Messages in iCloud is Not Recommended

There are scenarios where enabling this feature might not be ideal:

• Limited iCloud storage plan: If you're on the free 5GB plan and heavily use iMessage with media (images, videos), it can quickly fill up your space.
• Corporate Macs or iPhones: In enterprise environments, iCloud access may be restricted.

In these cases, traditional syncing via Apple ID and Text Message Forwarding (Section 5) might be your fallback method.

Fix 3. Check Text Message Forwarding Settings

This step ensures your Mac can receive SMS texts from your iPhone.

• On your iPhone, go to Settings > Messages > Text Message Forwarding

• Enable your Mac from the list of available devices
• Enter the code that appears on your Mac (if prompted)

This setting bridges the gap between your iPhone and Mac, especially for syncing SMS/MMS.

Fix 4. Ensure Correct Send & Receive Settings

Misconfigured settings can prevent iMessage from syncing or working at all.

On Mac:

• Open Messages > Settings > iMessage
• Under You can be reached for messages at, ensure your phone number and email are selected

On iPhone:

• Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive

• Make sure the same number and email are enabled

Both devices should have the same addresses selected to ensure consistency.

Fix 5. Reset NVRAM and PRAM (Intel Macs Only)

If you're using an Intel-based Mac, resetting NVRAM can fix various system-related issues, including connectivity and app errors.

To reset NVRAM/PRAM:

1. Turn Off your Mac
2. Immediately hold Option + Command + P + R after turning it on.
3. Hold for roughly 20 seconds, then let go.

Once your Mac restarts, recheck iMessage.

💡 Note: This does not apply to Apple Silicon (M-chip) Macs.

Fix 6. Sync Messages Manually Using iCloud

If syncing is stuck, trigger it manually.

On Mac:

• Go to Messages > Settings > iMessage
• Click Sync Now

• Wait a few minutes - messages should start appearing

You can monitor the progress via the status bar or iCloud settings.

Fix 7. Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time can prevent iMessage from activating or syncing.

On Mac:

• Go to System Settings > General > Date & Time
• Enable Set date and time automatically

On iPhone:

• Go to Settings > General > Date & Time
• Enable Set Automatically

Apple services, including iMessage, rely on accurate timestamps.

Fix 8. Verify iCloud Keychain Is Enabled

iMessage uses iCloud Keychain to authenticate secure messages across devices. If Keychain is off, syncing might not work.

On Mac:

• Go to System Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords & Keychain
• Turn iCloud Keychain ON

On iPhone:

• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords & Keychain
• Enable Keychain

Wait a few minutes and then check your Messages app again.

Fix 9. Reset Messages Preferences (Advanced)

Corrupted preference files can lead to persistent issues. Deleting the Messages preference file can help reset settings without data loss.

Steps:

1. Close the Messages app
2. Open Finder
3. Press Command + Shift + G and type ~/Library/Preferences/

4. Find and delete: com.apple.iChat.plist

5. Restart your Mac
6. Open Messages and sign in again

This will reset your iMessage configuration. Messages stored in iCloud will re-sync.

Fix 10. Restart All Devices

Sometimes, a simple restart resolves underlying issues.

1. Restart your iPhone and Mac
2. Reopen the Messages app on both
3. Wait a few minutes for syncing to reinitialize

Restarting refreshes system processes, including iMessage daemons.

Fix 11. Contact Apple Support

If none of the above fixes solve your issue, the problem may be account-related or due to a deeper system bug. At this point, it's best to contact Apple Support for specialized assistance.

• Visit: https://support.apple.com
• Chat with a representative or book a Genius Bar appointment

Be ready to provide device details, macOS version, and screenshots if possible.

Final Tips to Keep iMessage Working Smoothly

• Always keep devices updated to the latest software.
• Avoid third-party cleaning tools that can delete iMessage configuration files.
• Use the same Apple ID across all Apple devices.
• Regularly check your iCloud storage - Messages in iCloud requires free space.
• Turn off VPNs or firewalls that might block Apple servers temporarily when troubleshooting.

Conclusion

iMessage not syncing or working on Mac can be frustrating, but in most cases, it's a fixable issue. Whether the problem is due to misconfigured settings, Apple ID mismatches, or iCloud syncing errors, the solutions outlined above should help you restore proper functionality.

Start with basic checks like internet connection and Apple ID, and gradually move to more advanced steps such as resetting preferences or contacting support. Once resolved, you'll enjoy a seamless messaging experience across all your Apple devices again.

By following this step-by-step guide, you're well-equipped to diagnose and fix iMessage issues on your Mac efficiently.