It's a common hiccup with the Nothing Phone (2) where a picture just sits there with a "Sending..." label or fails with an error. The issue usually boils down to your connection, a setting in your messaging app, or a temporary software glitch. Let's get those photos moving again.
Check Your Mobile Data and WiFi
First, make sure you actually have an internet connection. If you're on mobile data, look at the signal bars in your status bar. A weak signal can definitely stall an MMS (picture message). Try moving to a spot with better reception.
If you're using WiFi, ensure it's connected and working. You can quickly test by opening a webpage in your browser. Sometimes, toggling WiFi off and back on in your quick settings panel can re-establish a cleaner connection.
Verify MMS and Data Settings
Your carrier's mobile data must be active to send picture messages (MMS). Head into Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network. Make sure "Mobile data" is switched on.
Next, you need to check the settings within your messaging app, like Google Messages. Open the app, tap your profile picture, go to Messages settings > Advanced. Ensure "Auto-download MMS" and "Auto-download MMS when roaming" are enabled, depending on your situation.
Force Stop and Clear Your Messaging App's Cache
A temporary glitch in the app itself is a frequent culprit. Go to Settings > Apps > See all apps and find your messaging app (e.g., Google Messages or the Nothing messaging app). Tap on it, then hit Force stop.
After that, tap Storage & cache and select Clear cache. This wipes temporary data that might be causing the hang-up without deleting your messages. Open the app again and try sending your picture.
Switch Between WiFi and Mobile Data
Some WiFi networks have firewalls or restrictions that block MMS traffic. If your picture won't send on WiFi, turn WiFi off completely so the phone is forced to use mobile data. Try sending it then.
Conversely, if mobile data is being finicky, connect to a stable WiFi network and try sending. This process of elimination tells you where the blockage is.
Check for a Data Saver or Restrict Background Data Setting
Data Saver is a great feature, but it can prevent apps from using data in the background to send messages. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Data Saver. If it's on, turn it off temporarily to test.
Also, check the specific data settings for your messaging app. In Settings > Apps, select your messaging app, then tap Mobile data & WiFi. Make sure "Background data" is allowed and it isn't restricted.
Update Your Carrier Services and Messaging App
Outdated carrier configuration can mess with MMS. Open the Google Play Store, search for "Carrier Services," and see if an update is available. Install it if there is.
Do the same for your primary messaging app. Keeping these updated ensures you have the latest bug fixes and compatibility with your carrier's network.
Perform a Soft Restart on Your Phone (2)
A simple reboot clears out RAM and stops any minor software processes that are stuck. Press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears, then tap "Restart."
If the screen is unresponsive, you can force a restart by pressing and holding the Power button for about 10 seconds until the phone vibrates and the Nothing logo appears.
Review Your APN (Access Point Name) Settings
Incorrect APN settings will break MMS. These are usually configured automatically, but they can get corrupted. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network > Access Point Names.
Tap the APN your phone is using (often there's only one). You'll need to get the correct MMS settings (proxy, port, MMSC) from your carrier's website or support. I'd recommend contacting them for the exact details to enter here.
Try a Different Messaging App
This is a great way to see if the problem is with your specific app. Download a well-regarded alternative like Textra or Signal from the Play Store. Set it as your default messaging app temporarily and see if you can send a picture through it.
If it works in the new app, the issue is isolated to your previous app's data or settings. You can then decide to stick with the new app or dig deeper into resetting the old one.
Reset Network Settings as a Last Resort
This will wipe all your saved WiFi passwords, Bluetooth pairings, and cellular network settings back to factory defaults. It often resolves persistent, obscure connection issues. Go to Settings > System > Reset options.
Tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth and confirm. After the phone reboots, you'll need to reconnect to your WiFi and re-pair Bluetooth devices, but it can clear up stubborn MMS problems.