Message delivery is contingent upon the receiving device’s ability to connect to the cellular or Wi-Fi network. When a mobile phone is powered off due to battery depletion, it loses its connection to these networks. Consequently, the device is unable to receive incoming data, including text messages (SMS) or data-based messages from applications such as WhatsApp or Signal. For instance, a text message sent to a phone that is switched off will not be immediately delivered.
The inability of a device to receive messages when powered off is a fundamental limitation of current mobile communication systems. This condition affects various communication methods, including SMS, MMS, and data-based messaging. Historically, undelivered messages were often discarded. Modern systems, however, typically employ a store-and-forward mechanism. This system holds the message on the sender’s service provider’s server until the recipient’s device reconnects to the network. This ensures a higher rate of successful message delivery.