How to Fix “Unable to Start Collaboration” in iPhone Notes

From jotting down ideas or creating checklists, the iPhone Notes app has been a public favorite for a long time. Thanks to its versatile features, you can even collaborate with other users in real time. But when you get an error alert just when you’ve wanted to use this option, it can throw a wrench in your productivity. If you’ve found yourself searching for how to fix “Unable to Start Collaboration” in iPhone Notes, you’re not alone. Today, we will solve this problem for you!

How to Fix “Unable to Start Collaboration” in iPhone Notes

Whether you’re working on a shared project or creating a vacation list with your friends, the collaboration tool comes in handy for several purposes. Before you start, make sure your Notes app as well as iOS are running on their latest versions. Let’s check out how to fix any error issues.

Method 1: Check iCloud and iPhone Storage Space

The easiest way to make sure your Notes collaboration feature is up and running is by first making sure you have enough storage in your iPhone.

Option 1: Check iCloud Storage

Here’s how you can make sure you have iCloud storage space:

1. Open Settings and tap on your username.
2. Now, select iCloud.

You will be able to see how much space you have left.

Option 2: Check iPhone Storage

Similarly, here’s how you can do the same for iPhone storage.

1. Open Settings and tap on General.
2. Now, select iPhone Storage.

You will be able to get an insight into your phone’s space.

Method 2: Enable iCloud Access

Since the Notes app only works with the iCloud interface, you must turn on its access:

1. Open the Notes app and select the note of your choice.
2. Tap on the three dots at the top right corner.
3. Select Move Note.
4. Now, tap on Quick Notes or New Folder under iCloud.

This way you can now collaborate with other users.

Method 3: Sync with Notes with iCloud

Another reason why you are getting the collaboration error is due to it is not being synced with your iCloud. Check out how to do the same:

1. Open Settings and tap on your username.
2. Now, select iCloud.
3. Swipe down and tap on Show All under APPS USING ICLOUD.
4. Tap on Notes.
5. Now, turn the toggle on for Sync this iPhone.

You can check if your collaboration option is not working.

Method 4: Unlock Your Note

If your notes are password protected then you cannot collaborate with other users due to privacy reasons. This is how you can turn it off:

1. Open the Notes app and select the note of your choice.
2. Tap on the three dots at the top right corner.
3. Now, select Remove.

This way you will now be able to open your notes to other people.

Method 5: Turn off Private Relay

Private Relay helps users hide their IP addresses and adds an extra layer of security. This can also cause collaboration tools in Notes to stop working.

Note: This feature is only available for users subscribed to iCloud Plus.

1. Open Settings and tap on your username.
2. Now, select iCloud.
3. Swipe down and tap on Private Relay under iCloud+.
4. Now, turn the toggle off for Private Relay.

This way you can fix “Unable to Start Collaboration” in the iPhone Notes app.

Method 6: Restart Your iPhone

If the methods mentioned above do not work, then the most effective and straightforward approach for resolving any issues is restarting your iPhone. By powering off and then turning back on your iPhone, you can clear any minor glitches that may be causing problems.

Method 7: Sign Out and Sign Into Apple ID

If you have tried all fixes and still facing an error, signing out of your Apple ID can refresh some settings back to normal. This is how you can do the same:

1. Open Settings and tap on your username.
2. Swipe down and tap on Sign Out.
3. Type in your password and tap on Turn off.
4. Then, tap on Sign in.
5. Enter your username and password.

Your problem may be solved.

Method 8: Reset iPhone

Lastly, if none of the methods work then you can reset all settings to get back your phone to normal.

Note: All data and information from iPhones will be lost therefore, we advise users to back up their data.

1. Open Settings > General.
2. Select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3. Swipe down and tap on Reset
4. Tap on Reset All Settings.
5. Enter your passcode and confirm the reset.

This way your iPhone will be reset to factory mode.

Also Read: How to Italicize on iPhone in Different Apps

Now you will no longer have a difficult time figuring out how to fix “Unable to Start Collaboration” in iPhone Notes after following this guide. For more helpful tips and tricks, stay tuned, and feel free to share your suggestions in the comments below.