Explee LogoExplee Logo

How to Forward a Text: Step-by-Step Guide for Android and iPhone

Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Aug 31, 2024
In Short

To forward a text, open your messaging app, long-press the text message you want to forward, select the Forward option, choose the recipient, and tap Send. Forwarding text messages is simple on both Android and iPhone. For Android, use the Messages app; for iPhone, use the Messages app and tap the arrow icon to send text to another number.

Forwarding text messages on Android

Steps to forward a text on Android

  • Open the Messages app: Launch the default messaging application on your Android device to start forwarding text messages
  • Select the message: Long-press on the text message you want to forward until it's selected
  • Tap the forward option: Select the three vertical dots at the top-right corner and choose Forward to send text to another number
  • Choose recipient: Select a contact from your list or enter a new phone number to forward the text
  • Send the message: Tap the Send button (usually an arrow icon) to complete forwarding the text message

Alternative method for Samsung phones

  • Open the message and long-press for popup options
  • Tap Forward to begin the process of forwarding text messages
  • Select the recipient from Contacts or enter a new number
  • Tap Done
  • Tap the Send icon (upper right arrow) next to the message to forward the text

Forwarding text messages on iPhone

Steps to forward a text on iPhone

  • Open the Messages app: Launch the default messaging application on your iPhone to start the process of how to forward a text
  • Select the message: Tap and hold on the message you want to forward
  • Choose More: Select More from the popup menu
  • Tap Forward: Select the Forward icon (arrow pointing to the right) to initiate forwarding text messages
  • Enter recipient: Type in the contact or phone number of the recipient to send text to another number
  • Send: Tap the Send button (arrow pointing up) to forward the message

Automatic text forwarding options

Using third-party apps

  • Install AutoForwardSMS on Android to automatically forward incoming texts
  • Enable "SMS Forwarding" mode in the app settings for effortless forwarding of text messages

Forwarding to email

  • Long-press the message and choose Forward
  • Enter the email address you want to send to
  • Tap the Send button to complete forwarding the text message

Cross-platform text forwarding

iPhone to Android forwarding

  • Launch Settings on your iPhone
  • Tap on Messages
  • Select Text Message Forwarding
  • Enable the toggle button next to the Android device to allow forwarding text messages between platforms

SMS forwarding to iPad or Mac

  • Ensure all devices are signed in to the same Apple ID
  • On iPhone, go to Settings > Messages > Text Message Forwarding
  • Enable the toggle for compatible devices to set up forwarding text messages across Apple devices

Security considerations when forwarding texts

  • Avoid sharing sensitive information via SMS due to lack of robust encryption when forwarding text messages
  • Use encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp for sensitive conversations instead of standard text forwarding
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for messaging accounts when available to secure your text forwarding process
  • Regularly update your mobile device's operating system and messaging apps to ensure safe forwarding of text messages

FAQ

How do I forward a text message on my phone?

To forward a text message, open your messaging app, long-press the message you want to forward, select the "Forward" option, choose the recipient, and tap "Send". The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your device and operating system.

Can I forward multiple text messages at once?

Yes, on most devices you can forward multiple text messages simultaneously. Select the messages you want to forward by long-pressing and tapping each one, then choose the "Forward" option and proceed as you would with a single message.

Is it possible to automatically forward text messages to another number?

Yes, you can set up automatic text forwarding using third-party apps like AutoForwardSMS on Android. For iPhones, you can enable text message forwarding to other Apple devices in your Settings.

How do I forward a text message to an email address?

To forward a text message to an email address, long-press the message, select "Forward", enter the email address as the recipient instead of a phone number, and send. This method works on both Android and iPhone devices.

Are there any security risks when forwarding text messages?

When forwarding text messages, be cautious about sharing sensitive information, as standard SMS is not encrypted. For sensitive content, it's better to use encrypted messaging apps. Always keep your device and apps updated for better security when forwarding texts.