Apple’s iOS 26 update, released in mid-September 2025, has revolutionized the iPhone Messages app, blending sleek design with interactive tools for everyday communication. These enhancements, which extend compatibility to older iPhones, offer a range of standout additions that elevate both group chats and personal exchanges.
Liquid Glass Redesign for Smoother Interactions
The iOS 26 update introduces a liquid glass visual effect that creates fluid animations within the Messages interface. This design element enhances readability and touch responses during conversations, making the user experience more immersive. The liquid glass effect applies to message threading and bubble displays, transforming the way we interact with our messages. This design overhaul has a significant impact on dark mode and emoji rendering in Messages, making them more visually appealing and easier to use.
Business Insider and Consumer Reports have both highlighted this feature in their coverage of iOS 26.
Advanced Animation Effects in Chats
Adding to the visual appeal, iOS 26 Messages now includes dynamic screen effects and sticker animations. These features allow users to add a cinematic flair to their texts without the need for third-party apps. Full-screen reactions in group messages are a prime example of how these new animation effects can bring a chat to life. Furthermore, iOS 26 offers customization options for effects tied to message types, making the messaging experience more personalized and engaging.
Mashable and Popular Mechanics have both recommended these features for immediate testing.
Scheduled and Delayed Message Sending
One of the most practical features of iOS 26 Messages is the built-in scheduling tool. This feature enables users to compose and time messages for future delivery directly from the app. This tool comes with integrated privacy controls, such as the ability to edit messages post-scheduling. The scheduling feature is particularly useful in professional and personal scenarios, such as coordinating communication across different time zones.
Popular Science has provided a detailed analysis of this enhancement.
AI-Assisted Message Composition
Another standout feature of iOS 26 Messages is the intelligent reply suggestions and auto-complete features powered by on-device AI. These tools streamline responses in busy threads by adapting to user patterns for more personalized phrasing. The AI-assisted features are also integrated with Siri for voice-to-text refinements, making it easier than ever to compose messages on the go.
Popular Mechanics and Consumer Reports have both highlighted these features in their reviews of iOS 26.
Enhanced Group Chat Management
Group chats on iOS 26 Messages have also received a significant upgrade. Improved mention notifications and thread organization reduce clutter in large conversations, making it easier to keep track of discussions. Admin controls for muting or pinning chats have also been introduced, providing users with greater control over their group chat experience. Additionally, file sharing within groups has been improved, making it easier to share and access files within a group chat.
Mashable and Popular Science have both featured these enhancements in their coverage of iOS 26.
Privacy and Security Boosts
Privacy and security have been given a significant boost in iOS 26 Messages. The update introduces end-to-end encryption expansions and hidden message folders, safeguarding sensitive exchanges. Biometric locks for specific threads have also been introduced, providing an additional layer of security. Furthermore, iOS 26 offers recovery options for locked content without compromising security, ensuring that users can access their content when needed.
Business Insider and Popular Mechanics have both highlighted these security features in their reports on iOS 26.