How to Fix iPhone Text Messages App Crashing Issues on iOS 18

Experiencing frequent crashes or unresponsiveness with the iPhone Messages app on iOS 18 can be frustrating, but understanding the root causes can help you address the issue more effectively. Several factors can contribute to the app malfunctioning, from outdated software to insufficient storage or corrupted data.

Below, we explore some of the most common reasons behind these crashes and how they affect the Messages app's performance.

• Running an Outdated iOS Version. One of the primary causes of the Messages app crashing or malfunctioning is using an outdated version of iOS. While iOS 18 introduces many new features and improvements, failing to update to the latest version can lead to compatibility issues, especially with core apps like Messages.
• Temporary Bugs and Glitches. Even with the latest updates, temporary bugs or glitches can still disrupt the smooth operation of the Messages app. These random issues within the app’s code can cause it to freeze, crash, or close unexpectedly.
• Insufficient Storage or RAM. Another common reason the Messages app crashes is when your iPhone is running low on storage or memory (RAM). When there isn’t enough available storage or memory, the system struggles to keep apps like Messages running smoothly. This can result in crashes or even prevent the app from opening.
• Cached Files or Corrupted Data. Over time, cached files or corrupted data can accumulate within the Messages app, leading to malfunctions or crashes. These residual files can cause instability, making it difficult for the app to perform as expected. Regularly clearing cached data or resetting the app can help maintain its smooth operation and prevent crashes.

When the Messages app on your iPhone starts crashing, follow these steps to quickly resolve the issue:

Restart Your iPhone

A simple restart can often fix minor glitches that cause the Messages app to crash. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Press and hold the power button (or the side button on newer models) until the “slide to power off” slider appears.

Step 2: Slide the slider to power off your iPhone.

Step 3: Wait for about 10 seconds, then press and hold the power button again until the Apple logo appears.

Step 4: Release the button and wait for your iPhone to restart.

Check for iOS Updates

Updating to the latest version of iOS 18 can fix bugs that might be causing the Messages app to crash. To check for and install updates:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap General.

Step 3: Tap Software Update.

Step 4: If an update is available, tap Download and Install. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

Free Up Storage Space

Insufficient storage can lead to app crashes. To free up space:

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: Tap General.

Step 3: Tap iPhone Storage.

Step 4: Review the list of apps and their storage usage.

Step 5: Tap on apps or files you no longer need and select Delete App or remove files to free up space.

Close Background Apps

Closing background apps can help free up memory and improve performance. To close apps:

Step 1: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle (or double-tap the Home button on older models) to open the App Switcher.

Step 2: Swipe left or right to find the apps you want to close.

Step 3: Swipe up on the app previews to close them.

Step 4: Press the Home button or swipe up to return to your home screen.

Following these steps should help resolve issues with the Messages app crashing on your iPhone.

If quick fixes don’t resolve the issue, try these advanced solutions to address more persistent problems with the Messages app crashing on iOS 18.

Reset All Settings

Resetting all settings can help resolve system conflicts without erasing your personal data. This process restores settings like Wi-Fi passwords, wallpapers, and network preferences but leaves your apps and files untouched. Here’s how to reset all settings:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap General.

Step 3: Scroll down and tap Reset.

Step 4: Tap Reset All Settings.

Step 5: Enter your passcode and confirm the action.

This process can resolve underlying issues that might be causing the Messages app to malfunction, while keeping your data safe.

Clear Messages App Data

Clearing cached data or resetting the Messages app can help resolve issues caused by corrupted data. While iOS doesn’t have a direct way to clear app data, you can try the following steps to refresh the app:

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap Messages.

Step 3: Toggle off iMessage, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.

This action forces the Messages app to reset its connection to the server and clear any temporary glitches.

Use Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Dr.Fone - System Repair is an effective solution for fixing iOS system issues, including the Messages app crashing on iOS 18. Below are four essential steps for both Standard Repair (which preserves your data) and Advanced Repair (used for more severe issues but erases all data).

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Standard Repair (No Data Loss)

Step 1: Download and install Dr.Fone - System Repair on your computer.

Open the software and connect your iPhone using a USB cable.

Step 2: Select System Repair from the main menu, then choose Standard Repair to fix common system issues without erasing any data.

Step 3: Dr.Fone will automatically detect your device. Confirm your device information and click Start to proceed.

Step 4: Dr.Fone will download the appropriate iOS firmware. Once the download is complete, click Repair Now. Your iPhone will restart after the repair process is finished, resolving the Messages app issue.

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Advanced Repair (Data Loss)

Step 1: Launch Dr.Fone - System Repair and connect your iPhone. Choose Advanced Repair from the options.

Step 2: Confirm that you understand Advanced Repair will erase all data and proceed by clicking Start.

Step 3: Dr.Fone will download the firmware for your device. Once downloaded, click Repair Now to begin the repair process.

Step 4: After the repair is complete, your iPhone will restart, and the Messages app crashing issue should be resolved. Make sure to restore your data from a backup if necessary.

These steps will guide you through resolving persistent iOS system issues that affect the Messages app on iOS 18.

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Dealing with the Messages app crashing on your iPhone can be frustrating, especially if you're running iOS 18. In this guide, we've covered both quick fixes and advanced solutions to help you resolve the issue, from restarting your device and freeing up storage space to resetting settings and using Dr.Fone - System Repair.

For more stubborn problems, Dr.Fone - System Repair provides a comprehensive solution to fix iOS system issues safely and effectively, whether through Standard or Advanced Repair. By using Dr.Fone - System Repair, you can ensure your Messages app runs smoothly without interruptions. Dr.Fone offers a reliable way to fix these issues without losing your data.

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