Can't send/receive texts to/from non iPhone users

[merickelmn]

I bought two iPhone 4S about a month ago.....on my phone I can only send and receive text messages from other iPhone users...on my wife's phone text messages work with other phone types...I get the "red !" and try again prompt but texts won't send on my phone...is something set up wrong or might I have a defective phone?

[vzw_customer_support]

Hello Merickelmn,

Not everyone has an iPhone so it's really important to have your regular text messaging function working. I will be more than happy to provide some suggestions to get you up an running.

Please ensure you have a current backup of your phone content. You can do this either via Wi-Fi/iCloud backup or you can plug directly into your computer and backup via iTunes.

I would first try turning your phone off for about 10 seconds and test again.  Next, try this:
http://support.verizonwireless.com/clc/devices/knowledge_base.html?id=48891

Finally, if the normal resets don't work I would recommend a restore of your phone. You can follow the steps here:
http://support.verizonwireless.com/clc/devices/knowledge_base.html?id=47616

Please keep us updated!

Thanks,

MelissaM_VZW
Follow us on Twitter @vzwsupport

[opticnerv]

Can I send texts with wifi and cell data both off? I have an iPhone with 4S and my plan is UNLT Calls and Texts with 2 GB Data. Do I use iMessage for ALL of my texts? Do those messages count as data usage?

[Ann154]

Using imessage will go against your data plan allowance.