Apple Unveils Major Updates to Messages App in iOS 18
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| Apple Unveils major updates for its iOS 18 massaging app and it's new Apple Intelligence during WWDC 2024 Image credit: iOS 18 website |
During Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, the company introduced iOS 18, featuring significant updates to the Messages app.
Key Updates in the Messages App
Scheduled Messages
A prominent new feature in iOS 18's Messages app is the ability to schedule messages for later. Previously available only in the Mail app, this feature allows users to delay sending messages for various reasons, such as avoiding interruptions during inappropriate times or accommodating different time zones. Users can also review and edit scheduled messages before they are sent, providing flexibility and a chance for a final review.
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| Schedule messages and RCS messaging Support Image credit: iOS 18 website |
RCS Messaging Support
iOS 18 introduces support for RCS messaging, allowing iPhone users to send and receive richer messages with Android users. This includes features like typing indicators, read receipts, high-resolution media sharing, and improved group chats.
New Text Formatting Options
iOS 18 enhances text formatting in Messages, allowing users to bold, italicize, underline, and strikethrough words. Additionally, animated effects can be applied to text and emojis, such as making content appear larger, smaller, or adding dynamic effects like "explode" or "nod." The app will even suggest appropriate effects based on the message content.
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| New text formatting and enhanced tapbacks Image credit: iOS 18 website |
Enhanced Tapbacks
Tapbacks in iOS 18 are improved, allowing users to respond with any emoji or sticker, including Live Stickers created from photos. The app will track favorite Tapbacks for easier access.
Satellite Messaging
With iOS 18, users with iPhone 14 or later can send messages via satellite when Wi-Fi or cellular networks are unavailable. This feature is part of the same system as Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite and includes two years of free satellite messaging upon activation of new iPhone models.
Apple Intelligence Integration
Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI, will significantly impact the Messages app. It includes features like message suggestions based on previous conversations and Genmoji, which generates images from descriptions or concepts. The new Image Playground app allows users to modify images for use in messages and other contexts.
Availability Across Devices
These updates will also be available on iPad with iPadOS 18 and Mac with macOS 15 Sequoia. While most features will roll out in early fall, some related to Apple Intelligence may be delayed until the end of the year.
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