How messages work

Common actions

• Message connectionsOpen a conversation from Messages or a connected profile.
• Use statusesShare a short status with connections for about 24 hours.
• Send Convoy invitesWhen you are in an active Convoy, you can send an invite card to an accepted connection.
• React and retryHeart messages. If a send fails, tap Retry to try the same message again.
• Open shared photosTap a photo to open it full screen. Pinch or double-tap to zoom, use the download button to save it, and close or swipe vertically to return when it is not zoomed.
• Use safety controlsReport messages or block accounts when needed.

What to expect

• Connections onlyMessages are for accepted connections. Privacy, blocking, account state, or connection changes can affect whether a thread is visible or usable.
• StatusesStatuses are short notes for connections and can expire after about 24 hours.
• Convoy invitesConvoy invite cards help a connection join an active Convoy, but they should not show live location before the recipient joins.
• Temporary connection lossOpen conversations refresh recent messages after the connection returns.
• Saving photosSaving a shared photo requires permission to add it to your iPhone Photos library.
• Reduce MotionFull-screen photo transitions follow your iPhone's Reduce Motion setting.
• LinksExternal links in messages may ask for confirmation before leaving Idle.

Troubleshooting

• Message delayed or failedCheck your connection, reopen the thread, and tap Retry if the option appears. A retry continues the same message rather than creating another one.
• Photo cannot be retriedIf the original photo is no longer available, choose it again and send a new message.
• Photo will not saveCheck Idle's Photos permission in iPhone Settings, then try again.
• Convoy invite will not sendConfirm the Convoy is still active and the recipient is an accepted connection.
• Invite card will not joinThe Convoy may have ended, expired, or become full.
• Status disappearedShort statuses are temporary and can expire.
• Thread missingBlocking, account state, or access changes can affect message visibility.