Android Multimedia messages

Contact your provider if MMS problems persist.

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When you can't send or receive multimedia messages, or MMS, on your Android smartphone, the problem could be the result of either network issues or a software problem with the phone. Depending on the cause of the MMS problems, you may end up completely wiping your phone's data.

Network Connection

Check the Android phone's network connection if you can't send or receiving MMS messages. An active cellular data connection is required to use the MMS function. Open the phone's Settings and tap “Wireless and Network Settings.” Tap “Mobile Networks” to confirm it is enabled. If not, enable it and attempt to send a MMS message. If you are outside your provider's network, enable data roaming to use MMS, although the MMS features may not function properly until you are back in your provider's network.

Data Plan

If your Android phone is newly activated, check that your service plan includes a data plan. Most providers require that Android users have a smartphone data plan included in their service. Depending on your provider, you can either check your plan online through the provider's website or by calling customer service. If data is not included, ask the provider to add it to your plan. Most providers activate the data coverage immediately so that you can use your MMS service.

Soft Reset

A soft reset clears up a range of issues on Android phones. If MMS problems persist, soft reset your phone. The soft reset, or battery pull, does not negatively affect your phone. It may provide your phone with the boost it needs to function properly. Pull out the phone's battery and leave it out for 45 seconds. Replace the battery and turn on the phone. Send a test message to determine if the problem is resolved.

Hard Reset

A last resort option for fixing MMS problems on the Android phone is a hard reset. The hard reset removes the data on the phone and resets its settings. Back up your phone's files before doing a hard reset. Open your phone's settings and tap “Privacy.” Tap “Factory Data Reset” and follow the prompts to finish the hard reset. When the Android restarts, you will need to go through the phone setup process again.