Instagram failed to send message error: How to fix

Instagram logo in dark modeUnsplash: Alexander Shatov

If you’re an avid Instagram user, you might have received a ‘failed to send’ error message while trying to send a message. Thankfully, there are ways to fix this issue.

For many years, Instagram has been one of the main social media platforms people use daily, posting photos and videos for their friends, family, and followers to interact with, and keeping up to date with everyone else’s content.

The direct message feature is one of the app’s most used features, as it allows users to communicate with each other one-on-one, sending posts, and having conversations.

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However, if you are a frequent user of the DM feature, you may have at some point been unable to send a message, receiving the ‘failed to send’ error. Fortunately, there is a way to fix the problem.

Instagram logo next to phoneUnsplash: Nathana Rebouças
Instagram is used by millions across the world.

How to fix Instagram ‘failed to send message’ error

As with any Instagram glitch, it can be difficult to determine whether the issue lies just with your device, or with Instagram as a whole. If the issue is affecting a large number of people, it’s less likely that you will be able to fix the issue on your own.

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To find out if others are experiencing issues, you can check Down Detector to identify whether there’s something wrong with Instagram.

However, if it seems like not many people are experiencing the glitch, there are a few things you can try to see if it resolves the problem.

  • Uninstall and reinstall the app — It’s a classic trick, but doing this may help reset the app and allow you to send messages again.
  • Make sure the Instagram app is up to date — Check the relevant app store on your device to ensure that you have the latest version of Instagram.
  • Check your internet connection — As with many technical issues or glitches, it can be a good idea to check whether there’s an issue with your internet connection.

If the issue persists, you can report it to Instagram.

If you want to know more about how to use Instagram, you can check out our other guides including how to link your Instagram account to TikTok and how to make money on Instagram.

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