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"Couldn't send message, service unavailable" Error on a Bark Phone

Updated
Paola Rivera

The "Couldn't send message, service unavailable" error in the Bark Messages app usually occurs when there's an issue with the cell reception, SIM card, or billing.

couldnt send message service unavailable - bark phone - bark messages.png

First, let's check if your billing is up to date. After that, we'll check some things on your kid's Bark Phone.

On your parent app / dashboard

  1. On your own device, open up your parent app / dashboard.
    • If you're seeing that your account subscription is paused, that explains the error. If you'd like to remove the pause from your subscription, please reach out to us.
  2. On the new UI, tapnew UI - account icon.png Account.
    On the classic UI, tap the     top right dropdown menu (computer) or the ≡ More menu (mobile).
    - Tap Account.
    • If you're seeing an error about your credit card, that could be the reason for the original error. Go ahead and update your card.
    • If you're not seeing an error related to updating your card, move on to the steps below.

On your kid's Bark Phone

  1. Turn the Bark Phone off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. Then, see if the issue is resolved.
  2. If the issue continues, let's swipe down from the top of the screen twice. Make sure Mobile Data is turned on.
  3. Next, look at the top status bar.
    • If it says "Emergency calls only," review these steps.
    • If it has 📶 poor cell reception, find a location with better signal or turn on Wi-Fi calling (more details below).
  4. Connect to Wi-Fi and turn on Wi-Fi Calling and Texting to see if you're able to send texts. If it's already turned on, try turning it off.
  5. If you still are getting that error sending text messages, let's make sure the number isn't trying to be used by other services:
  6. If the issue persists after deregistering the number from third party services, let's check the SIM card:
    • On your kid's Bark Phone, open the Settings app.
    • Tap Connections.
    • Tap SIM Manager.
    • Look for Bark SIM in the SIM1 slot.
      • If it's in the SIM2 slot, that explains the issue! Remove the SIM card tray and insert the SIM card into the SIM1 slot instead.
      • If it's in the SIM1 slot and shows the correct phone number, please contact us with a picture of these settings and a brief description of what you've tried.