Messenger, Facebook’s instant messaging app, lets users send messages, photos, videos, and files in real-time. However, in order to share photos directly from your phone’s gallery, Messenger needs permission to access your photos. Whether you’re using an Android or iPhone, this is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to allow Messenger to access your photos on both Android and iOS devices.

For Android

Step 1: Open the Settings

  • Unlock your Android phone and open the Settings app. This is usually found by tapping the gear icon in the app drawer or in the notification shade.

Step 2: Navigate to Apps

  • Scroll down and tap on Apps or Apps & Notifications (the wording may vary depending on your phone model).

Step 3: Select Messenger

  • In the list of apps, find and tap on Messenger.

Step 4: Access Permissions

Open the Google Messages App 

  • Tap on Permissions. Here, you will see a list of permissions that Messenger has access to, such as location, microphone, camera, etc.

Step 5: Enable Photos Permission

  • Find the Storage permission (or it may be listed as “Photos & Media” depending on your Android version) and toggle it to Allow. This grants Messenger access to your device’s photos, videos, and files.

Step 6: Test the Settings

  • Open the Messenger app and try sending a photo. If everything is set up correctly, you should be able to access your phone’s gallery and share pictures seamlessly.

For iPhone

Step 1: Open the Settings

  • Unlock your iPhone and tap on the Settings app.

Step 2: Scroll Down to Messenger

  • Scroll down and find Messenger in the list of apps. Tap on it to open the app-specific settings.

Step 3: Enable Photos Access

  • Under the Allow Messenger to Access, you’ll see a list of permissions. Toggle the Photos option to Read and Write. This grants Messenger permission to view and share photos from your iPhone’s library.

Step 4: Select Your Preference for Photo Access

  • You’ll have the option to choose between:
    • All Photos: Messenger can access all photos in your gallery.
    • Selected Photos: Messenger will only access specific photos that you choose.
    • None: Messenger won’t have access to any photos.

    If you want full access, select All Photos.

Step 5: Test the Settings

  • Open Messenger and tap the photo icon while composing a message. You should now be able to select and send photos from your iPhone’s gallery.

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Ensure You Have the Latest Version of Messenger

  • Sometimes, issues arise due to outdated app versions. Make sure your Messenger app is up-to-date by checking the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iPhone).

2. Check Storage Settings

  • If your photos aren’t appearing in Messenger, it could be due to restricted access to your storage. Double-check the permissions and try restarting the app or your phone.

3. Revoke and Reapply Permissions

  • If you’ve previously denied access or changed settings, sometimes simply revoking and reapplying the permissions can solve the issue.

With these simple steps, you’ll be able to share your photos effortlessly on Messenger. Whether you’re using Android or iPhone, ensuring the app has permission to access your photos will make sending images quick and easy.