To forward a text message on an iPhone, open Messages, press and hold the specific message, tap More , tap the curved arrow/forward icon, choose the recipient, then send.

How to Forward a Text Message on iPhone

Quick Scoop

Forwarding a text on iPhone is built into the Messages app and works for both SMS and iMessage.

Basic steps (iOS 17-style and similar):

  1. Open the Messages app.
  2. Open the conversation with the message you want to forward.
  3. Press and hold the exact message bubble you want.
  4. In the menu that appears, tap More.
  5. A checkmark appears next to that message (you can tap others to select multiple).
  6. Tap the curved arrow / forward icon at the bottom-right.
  7. A new message window opens with the selected text filled in.
  8. Enter the contact name or phone number.
  9. Edit the text if you like, then tap Send.

The forwarded message sends as a new message from you, not as part of the original thread, and the original timestamp is not preserved.

Extra: Forward Multiple Messages

You can forward several messages from the same thread at once.

  • After you press and hold a message and tap More , tap additional bubbles to check them.
  • Then tap the forward arrow and choose your recipient(s).

This is handy for forwarding a mini “conversation summary” to someone else without sending your entire chat.

Manual vs. Automatic Forwarding (High-Level)

Most people mean “tap-and-send” manual forwarding, but there are also automation-style setups that can forward certain messages automatically using Shortcuts and filters like Sender or Message Contains.

Those more advanced automations are typically used for things like forwarding codes, alerts, or business messages and require setting up a Shortcut and triggers rather than using the simple press‑and‑hold method.

Mini FAQ

Does the other person see it was forwarded?
No, they just see a normal text or iMessage from you. There is no automatic “Forwarded” label. (You can type one if you want.) Can I forward photos or media the same way?
Yes. Press and hold the photo or media message, tap More , then forward with the arrow icon just like a text bubble.

Is this the same as copy and paste?
Copy–paste works, but forwarding is faster, especially when you want to select multiple messages at once.

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