How to Fix SMS & WhatsApp Messaging Problems (Step-by-Step Mobile Guide)

Messaging issues can be frustrating — especially when your SMS refuses to send or WhatsApp messages delay for hours.

If you’ve ever faced problems like:

• SMS not delivering
• WhatsApp stuck on one tick
• Messages failing to send
• Network errors during chats

You are not alone.

This guide will walk you through the most effective step-by-step fixes.

Honestly, this exact process worked for me on my Infinix device, and I’ve helped many people solve the same messaging problems using these steps.

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Why SMS and WhatsApp Messaging Problems Happen

Most messaging problems come from one of these causes:

• Weak mobile network signal
• Poor internet connection
• Incorrect phone settings
• App permission restrictions
• Outdated apps or system bugs

The good news is: most issues are easy to fix.

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Step-by-Step Fix: SMS Not Sending

If your SMS is failing, follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Check Network Signal

• Look at your signal bars
• If signal is low, move to an open area
• Turn Airplane Mode ON for 10 seconds, then OFF

This refreshes your network connection.

Step 2: Confirm You Have Airtime Balance

Some networks require airtime to send SMS.

• Dial your network balance code
• Ensure you have enough credit

Step 3: Restart Your Phone

This is simple but powerful.

• Hold the power button
• Tap Restart
• Try sending the SMS again

This fix has worked for me many times.

Step 4: Reset SMS App Settings

• Go to Settings
• Tap Apps
• Select Messages
• Tap Storage
• Then tap Clear Cache

Do NOT clear data unless necessary.

Step 5: Check Message Center Number (Advanced)

Incorrect SMSC settings can block messages.

• Open Messages app
• Go to Settings
• Look for Message Center or SMSC

If unsure, contact your mobile provider.

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Step-by-Step Fix: WhatsApp Messages Not Sending

WhatsApp relies on internet, so most problems are connection-related.

Step 1: Confirm Internet is Working

• Open Chrome or YouTube
• If nothing loads, your data/Wi-Fi is down

Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Step 2: Disable Battery Saver Mode

Battery saver can stop WhatsApp in the background.

• Go to Settings
• Tap Battery
• Turn OFF Battery Saver

Step 3: Allow Background Data for WhatsApp

• Go to Settings
• Tap Apps
• Select WhatsApp
• Tap Mobile Data & Wi-Fi
• Enable Background Data

Step 4: Update WhatsApp

Outdated apps cause bugs.

• Open Google Play Store
• Search WhatsApp
• Tap Update

Step 5: Force Stop and Reopen WhatsApp

• Go to Settings
• Tap Apps → WhatsApp
• Tap Force Stop
• Reopen WhatsApp and retry

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Fix: WhatsApp Stuck on One Tick

One tick means WhatsApp cannot deliver the message.

Possible reasons:

• The receiver is offline
• You are blocked
• WhatsApp servers are down
• Your internet is unstable

Try this:

• Restart your phone
• Switch networks
• Check WhatsApp Web status

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Fix: Messages Delayed or Coming Late

Delayed messages often happen due to:

• Poor background sync
• Restricted permissions
• Network instability

Quick Fix Steps

• Disable Data Saver Mode
• Allow WhatsApp notifications
• Remove battery optimization for WhatsApp

This is one of the most common fixes I’ve used successfully.

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Best Practices for Smooth Messaging

To avoid future problems:

• Keep WhatsApp updated
• Restart your phone weekly
• Avoid aggressive battery-saving apps
• Use stable Wi-Fi or strong mobile signal

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts (Important)

Messaging issues like SMS not sending or WhatsApp delays are extremely common, especially on Android phones.

But with the step-by-step fixes in this guide, you can solve most of them within minutes.

These are the same methods that worked for me personally, and they’ve helped many others fix their communication problems fast.

Written with care for beginners who just want their phone to work properly again.

Written by Akindele Akinfenwa — Founder of Smsmobile24.com.