On the latest iOS 18 for iPhone, you need to go to Settings > General > Messages and ensure 'MMS Messaging' is toggled on.This will allow pictures to be texted.
Turn off and on your phone again and test to see if you are able to send a test message. if that does not work, then removes your SIM card and put it back in.Let us know how it goes.
The plan is likely not available to existing subscriber. Just continue to be on the lookout on the website as it seems new plans are more frequent as of late with more competitive offerings.
Either restart or power cycle your phone to force it to search for mobile network. On many occasions it helps to re-establish cellular connection of it has been configured
Good to know! I have only switched once since public reward phased out and was not aware of intricacies involving plan downgrade. Will be more through fil with my plan swaps going forward.