Fix: Messenger App Not Opening After iPadOS 17.4.1 Update

Resolving Messenger App Issues on iPad

Following the iPadOS 17.4.1 update, some users have encountered a perplexing message when trying to access Messenger on their iPads. If you’re one of the individuals affected by the “Open the Messenger app on your phone to continue” prompt, rest assured that there are solutions available to remedy this hiccup.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

For those residing in certain EU regions, this issue seems to have surfaced post the latest iPadOS update. Fortunately, the instructions to bypass this obstacle are embedded within the message itself. The key is to install Messenger on your iPhone or Android smartphone and initiate a set of selections.

  • Start by downloading Messenger and Facebook apps from the App Store or Play Store on your smartphone.
  • After installation, log into your Facebook account and then Messenger.
  • You’ll be prompted to “Make a choice about your Messenger Experience.”
  • Select “Get Started,” followed by choosing to continue using Messenger with your Facebook account.
  • Confirm your choice and then revisit the Messenger app on your iPad, tapping ‘OK’ to proceed.

In scenarios where the above steps don’t trigger the necessary message on your smartphone, consider removing your SIM card and placing it in a different iPhone to log into Facebook. Odd as it may seem, this has been a successful workaround for some users.

But what if you exclusively use Messenger on your iPad without a smartphone? As it stands, the only viable option is to borrow a smartphone, log in to your Messenger account, and make the aforementioned choices.

Additional Fixes

If following the choices on your phone still leaves you stuck at the same screen on your iPad, it’s time to try force restarting your device. This action can help eliminate any lingering bugs preventing the changes from taking effect.

  • For iPads with Face ID or Touch ID in the top button: Press and release the volume buttons in succession, then hold the top button until the Apple logo graces the screen.
  • For iPads with a Home button: Press and hold the top and Home buttons together until the Apple logo appears, then release.

Internet connection issues can also impede the functionality of Messenger. Verify your connection speed, and ensure that ‘Low Data Mode’ is disabled for both Wi-Fi and Cellular Data to avoid any connectivity-related problems.

Outdated apps can be problematic, so check for any available updates for Messenger in the App Store. If updates don’t solve the issue, consider reinstalling both Messenger and Facebook apps, as these platforms often work in tandem and reinstalling can refresh the system.

Lastly, keep your iPadOS up to date. New software releases can contain fixes for app-related issues. Navigate to the ‘Settings’ app, select ‘General,’ then ‘Software Update’ to download and install the latest version.

By following the provided guide and steps, the goal is to restore full functionality to the Messenger app on your iPad, ensuring seamless communication once again.

AppWizard
Fix: Messenger App Not Opening After iPadOS 17.4.1 Update