How to Forward Text Messages on an iPhone (Manual & Automatic Options)

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call forwarding and text forwarding

Forwarding text messages on an iPhone is a built-in feature that allows users to either send individual messages to another person or automatically receive SMS messages on other Apple devices. This guide explains both manual and automatic methods in a straightforward manner, enabling you to forward texts without the need for third-party apps.

What Is Message Forwarding on iPhone?

Message forwarding refers to two separate features available on iPhone:

Each method serves a different purpose depending on your usage needs.

How to Manually Forward a Text Message on iPhone

Manual forwarding is useful when you want to share a specific message with another person. This method supports both SMS (green bubbles) and iMessage (blue bubbles).

Steps to Manually Forward a Message:

  1. Open the Messages app on your iPhone.

  2. Tap the conversation that contains the message you want to forward.

  3. Press and hold the message bubble.

  4. Tap More... from the options that appear.

  5. Select the message or multiple messages.

  6. Tap the forward arrow in the bottom-right corner.

  7. Enter the recipient's name or phone number.

  8. Tap Send.

This method forwards only the selected message(s), not the entire conversation.

How to Automatically Forward Text Messages to Other Devices

Automatic text message forwarding is designed for users who want to read and reply to SMS texts on their Mac, iPad, or other Apple devices. It works by syncing your iPhone's SMS messages with other Apple devices using the same Apple ID.

Enable Automatic Text Message Forwarding:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

  2. Scroll down and tap Messages.

  3. Tap Text Message Forwarding.

  4. Select the Apple devices you want to receive your messages.

  5. A verification code may appear on those devices.

  6. Enter the code on your iPhone to confirm and enable the feature.

Once enabled, all SMS messages sent to your iPhone number will also appear on the selected Apple devices.

Requirements for Automatic Message Forwarding

To use automatic text message forwarding, the following conditions must be met:

  • Your iPhone and other devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID.

  • All devices should be connected to the internet.

  • Two-factor authentication must be enabled for your Apple ID.

  • Only Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) can receive forwarded messages.

If these requirements are not fulfilled, the forwarding option will not appear in the settings.

iMessage vs. Text Message Forwarding

It's important to understand the difference between iMessage and text message forwarding:

  • iMessages (blue bubbles) are automatically synced across Apple devices using iCloud.

  • Text message forwarding applies to SMS messages (green bubbles) received from non-Apple devices and allows them to appear on your other Apple devices.

Both features are separate and must be enabled individually for full message access across all devices.

How to Disable Text Message Forwarding

If you want to stop receiving forwarded messages on other Apple devices:

  1. Go to Settings > Messages > Text Message Forwarding.

  2. Toggle off the device(s) you no longer wish to use.

  3. Alternatively, sign out of your Apple ID on the other device to stop message syncing.

Disabling forwarding will not delete messages already received on the secondary devices.

Can You Automatically Forward Texts to Another iPhone Number?

No, iPhones do not support automatic forwarding of SMS messages to another mobile number, even if that number is on a different iPhone. This feature only works across devices logged in with the same Apple ID.

To share a message with another iPhone user using a different Apple ID or number, you must use the manual forwarding method.

What to Do If Forwarding Doesn’t Work

If you're having trouble setting up or using message forwarding, check the following:

  • All devices must be signed into the same Apple ID.

  • Two-factor authentication must be turned on.

  • Devices should be restarted and running the latest iOS or macOS version.

  • Ensure all devices are connected to a reliable Wi-Fi or cellular network.

If the "Text Message Forwarding" option is missing, it’s usually due to one of these requirements not being met.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I forward all messages automatically to another iPhone?

No. iPhones do not support automatic forwarding to a different phone number. Only devices signed in with the same Apple ID can receive forwarded messages.

Does message forwarding work with dual SIM?

Yes, but forwarded messages only apply to the line selected as the default messaging line on your iPhone.

Will forwarded messages include attachments?

Yes, forwarded messages may include media such as images or videos, depending on the content of the original message and the capabilities of the receiving device.

Final Thoughts

Text message forwarding on iPhone offers two practical methods—manual forwarding for sharing specific messages, and automatic forwarding for syncing messages across Apple devices. Both methods enhance message access and communication flexibility within the Apple ecosystem. Make sure your Apple ID, settings, and software versions are correctly configured to use these features without interruption.

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