iPhone text attachments: photos, video & audio — MMS limits explained
Aug 13, 2025
Why some pictures or videos fail over text and how to fix it. Learn the difference between SMS, MMS and iMessage, typical size constraints, and the fastest way to send media reliably from your iPhone.
Why iPhone text attachments fail (and how to fix them)
If a picture or video won’t send by text, you’re usually hitting one of three realities:
SMS vs MMS vs iMessage
SMS: text only. No media.
MMS: media supported but carriers impose size limits. Limits vary by carrier and plan; large files may fail or be heavily compressed.
iMessage: Apple-to-Apple only. Bigger files are allowed but may be compressed; recipients who aren’t on iMessage fall back to MMS.
Network conditions
Poor connectivity or temporary carrier issues can block delivery.
File size and format
Very long videos and high-res files often exceed MMS allowances.
Best practices for photos & video over text
Trim or compress long videos before sending.
Use Wi-Fi when available for smoother processing and fallback.
Keep media concise (shorter clips deliver more reliably).
When it must go through: Fext queues and delivers larger media reliably up to the app’s sending limits, and falls back cleanly.
If it’s truly huge: include a short link to a file (Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
How to attach media in Fext (fast)
Compose your message as usual.
Tap Attach and choose photo, video, file, or voice note.
Preview, then Send. Each recipient receives a private 1-to-1 SMS/MMS thread.
What Fext handles well
Photos: everyday photos deliver consistently.
Short videos: deliver reliably; long clips are best trimmed.
Voice notes: quick, lightweight, easy to scan.
Files: attach docs or PDFs when needed.
Troubleshooting quick list
If a video fails: trim length and retry; avoid ultra-high bitrates.
Recipient not on iMessage? Expect MMS limits—send a shorter clip.
Try on Wi-Fi and resend.
If still flaky, send as a link or email attachment.
Related guides
Send one message to many on iPhone