Every year, Apple fans around the world eagerly anticipate WWDC – and this year, they weren’t disappointed. With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple didn’t just refine its existing systems – it reinvented the messaging experience from the ground up.
1. Brand-New “Liquid Glass” Design: Messaging, Redefined
The first thing you’ll notice is the stunning new design language – Liquid Glass. Messages now looks like it’s floating on a layer of shimmering, semi-transparent glass.
- Visually unified with iOS 26’s system-wide redesign
- Dynamic transitions and lighting effects
- A clean, futuristic look that draws you in
2. Built-in Polls for Group Chats
iOS 26 introduces a long-awaited feature: native polls inside Messages.
- Ask a question and set multiple answer choices
- Group members can vote instantly without leaving the chat
- AI even suggests polls when it detects phrases like “What do you think?”
It’s perfect for planning trips, meals, or making decisions on the fly.
3. Personalized Chat Backgrounds for Every Conversation
Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all. With iOS 26, you can now set unique backgrounds for each conversation:
- Use your own photos or choose from Apple’s dynamic themes
- Generate AI-powered backgrounds with Image Playground
- Live backgrounds with subtle animations now supported
It adds personality, warmth, and a sense of intimacy to your daily conversations.
4. Typing Indicators in Group Messages
Wondering who’s typing in a busy group chat? Wonder no more.
With iOS 26, Messages now displays typing indicators for multiple people simultaneously.
- See who’s responding in real time
- Avoid awkward message overlaps
- Smooth out the rhythm of conversations
Whether it’s dinner, movie tickets, or birthday gifts – handling money in chats is finally seamless.
6. Smart Filtering for Unknown Senders
Spam and unsolicited messages are getting the boot. In iOS 26:
- Messages from unknown numbers are auto-sorted into a “Filtered” folder
- No notifications, no distractions
- You can review or ignore them at your leisure
Machine learning keeps improving over time, learning your preferences and acting smarter with every interaction.
7. Live Translation Within Chat Bubbles
Breaking language barriers, one text at a time.
iOS 26 introduces Live Translation directly inside chat bubbles, thanks to Apple Intelligence:
- Translates messages instantly in-line
- Supports major global languages like English, Spanish, French, Japanese, and more
- Runs locally on-device for full privacy
It’s perfect for travelers, international business, or simply chatting with global friends.
8. Precise Text Selection Inside Messages
Before iOS 26, you had to copy entire messages. Now, you can select and copy only the part of the text you need.
- Press and hold to activate smart text selection
- Highlight specific phrases, numbers, or info
- Ideal for grabbing addresses, codes, or instructions
It’s a simple change that makes a big difference in usability.
Powered by Apple Intelligence: Smarter Than Ever
Most of these new features wouldn’t be possible without Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new on-device AI framework.
- Processes language and context directly on your iPhone
- Suggests actions (polls, payments, translations) proactively
- Keeps your data private – nothing leaves your device
This AI isn’t just smart – it’s respectful of your privacy.
Release Date & Device Compatibility
- Public Beta: July 2025
- Official Release: Fall 2025
- Compatible Devices: iPhone 12 and newer
As always, new iPhones will ship with iOS 26 pre-installed.
