Everything You Need to Know About the iOS 26 Messages App
Apple's iOS 26 Messages app introduces some of the most-requested features that users have been waiting on for years. If you’re wondering what’s new in the latest update, you’re in for a treat. From personalized chat environments to dynamic group conversations, the Messages app in iOS 26 is more customizable, functional, and user-friendly than ever. Whether you use iMessage for one-on-one chats or group messages, this update delivers fresh tools that make your daily interactions smoother and more expressive.
Image : GoogleCustom Chat Backgrounds in the iOS 26 Messages App
One of the standout additions to the iOS 26 Messages app is the ability to set custom chat backgrounds. This visual personalization option brings iMessage in line with third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, which have offered background customization for years. With iOS 26, users can now select from preset designs like sky, aurora, and water themes, or use solid colors for a minimalist look.
Want something even more personal? Choose a photo from your Photo Library or create one on the spot using Apple’s new Image Playground feature. These backgrounds aren’t just for you—once set, everyone in the chat will see the same backdrop, as long as they’re also using iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS Tahoe. However, this feature is limited to iMessage conversations, so if you’re texting someone with an Android device, the background won’t appear on their end.
If you’d rather keep your chats clean and distraction-free, you can disable this feature by heading to Settings > Apps > Messages and toggling off Conversation Backgrounds. It's worth noting that the classic blue message bubbles remain unchanged—only the background gets a makeover.
Creating Polls in the iOS 26 Messages App
Another useful update to the iOS 26 Messages app is the addition of polling capabilities. This is a game-changer for group chats where decision-making can often turn into a chaotic thread of opinions. Whether you're planning dinner, deciding on a movie, or choosing a meeting time, polls help streamline the process.
To create a poll, simply tap the "+" button located next to the message text box, then select the Poll option. You can input multiple choices, and participants will be able to vote directly within the chat. This eliminates the need to use third-party apps or constantly ask for feedback. Group coordination has never been easier.
Polls work seamlessly in both iMessage and group chats—as long as all participants are on iOS 26 or compatible Apple devices. The results update in real time, so you can quickly gauge the group’s consensus. It’s yet another feature that emphasizes how Apple is focusing on utility and collaboration with iOS 26.
Group Typing Indicators and Other Enhancements
iOS 26 also includes subtle but significant improvements to the Messages app experience. Group typing indicators, for instance, now show when multiple people in a chat are typing simultaneously. This provides more context during active conversations, helping you avoid talking over someone or missing an important reply.
The overall design of the app now adopts Apple’s new Liquid Glass aesthetic, which introduces a sleeker, translucent interface throughout the operating system. It’s not just about appearance—the new design enhances readability and gives Messages a refreshed, modern look that complements the rest of iOS 26’s UI overhaul.
Small performance improvements and security enhancements have also been included to make the app faster and more secure. Apple has clearly paid attention to user feedback, rolling out features that users have long requested while still maintaining the simplicity and reliability that iMessage is known for.
Why the iOS 26 Messages App Matters
The iOS 26 Messages app update isn’t just about shiny new features—it reflects Apple’s broader strategy of keeping users within its ecosystem through meaningful, quality-of-life improvements. By enabling polls, personalized visuals, and smarter group interactions, iOS 26 transforms how users communicate, collaborate, and express themselves.
For Apple enthusiasts, this update is a reason to stay excited about iMessage. It bridges the gap between Apple’s native messaging platform and the customization and interactivity features commonly found in competitors. With iOS 26, Messages finally feels more modern, fun, and aligned with the expectations of today’s users.
If you haven’t upgraded yet, these new features might just be the reason to make the switch. From expressive chats to smarter group decisions, iOS 26 makes Messages more powerful and personal than ever.
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