Why are some iPhone messages blue and others green?
If you own an iPhone have you ever noticed how some text messages appear blue but others are green? Why does this happen? And does it really matter?
Blue is for iMessage
Blue indicates messages are sent or received using Apple's iMessage technology. iMessage looks and acts like an SMS, but doesn’t use any of the rates on your mobile plan. Instead it relies on data networks, cellular or wifi, to send and receives you messages. When you send messages to other iPhone users, your iPhone usually automatically sends the message as an iMessage.
Pros: iMessage does not cost any money and allows you access to certain Apple features such as the ability to share locations, send voice messages and check when messages are delivered.
Cons: iMessage uses your cellular data when you are not connected to wifi and you can only use iMessage to communicate with people who also have an iPhone.
Green is for SMS text messages
When you see a green message, it means the message is not using iMessage but the traditional SMS text message (or Short Messaging Service, if you want to be technical). SMS text messages are delivered over the same networks used for phone calls, which means they cost money. You’ll remember when texting was first introduced to mobile phones, carrier charged by the message and would bundle a fixed number of messages into your phone plans. However, these days most plans offer unlimited messages.
Pros: SMS text messages means you can text to all types of phones. It also doesn’t use any of your mobile data. If your mobile plan offers unlimited text messages but only limited data, then using SMS is a good option.
Cons: SMS cost money whereas iMessage is “free” (when connected to data/wifi).
How to turn iMessage on or off
To check if you iMessage is on or off, go to Settings > Messages > iMessage. Toggle the tab on or off according to your preference.
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