The latest iteration of Apple’s iOS, set to debut in September, brings a significant overhaul to the Messages app. With a sleek new Liquid Glass design, iOS 26 is packed with features that elevate both individual and group conversations. Let’s explore the 11 new features that are poised to revolutionize your messaging experience.
Custom background for each conversation
Tailor your chats with unique backgrounds. Select from preset themes like sky or water, solid colors, or even images from your gallery. Apple’s generative AI ‘Image Playground’ app can also craft custom images for a personal touch.
Polls in chats
Engage your audience with polls featuring up to twelve response options. Messages can suggest creating a poll based on your conversation, leveraging Apple Intelligence for seamless integration.
Live translation in real time
Break language barriers with real-time message translations powered by Apple Intelligence. Enjoy smooth conversations across English, French, German, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese.
Improvements to group chats
Enhancements include indicators of typing participants similar to WhatsApp and the ability to swiftly add unknown contacts to your list.
Smarter copying
Effortlessly copy specific message parts, such as addresses or tracking numbers, with a long press and selection feature.
New filters for messages
Categorize messages from unknown or suspected spam sources into distinct sections like transactions, advertising, spam, and more. Customize notifications to suit your preferences.
Natural text search
Enhanced search functionality now understands natural language, allowing for more intuitive searches using everyday language.
Image handling when data is low
Optimize data usage by sending low-quality image previews when on limited data, automatically switching to full-quality images on Wi-Fi.
New Genmoji features
Combine multiple emoji symbols to create custom Genmoji symbols, adding text descriptions for a personalized touch reminiscent of the viral stacked emojis trend.
Improvements to CarPlay
CarPlay integration now includes Tapbacks and the ability to pin conversations for quick access while on the go.
EU alignment and future encryption
In compliance with EU regulations, a new API enables third-party apps to send and receive SMS, MMS, and RCS. Apple also plans to introduce end-to-end encryption for RCS conversations between iPhone and Android users in upcoming updates.
With these exciting features on the horizon, iOS 26 is set to redefine the way we communicate. Stay tuned for an enhanced messaging experience that seamlessly blends creativity, functionality, and convenience.