Eight New iOS 26 Messages Features That Align with WhatsApp
Apple has launched iOS 26, highlighting a variety of new capabilities for the Messages app, aimed at competing with well-known messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram. Let’s explore the main enhancements that promise to improve your messaging interactions.
Liquid Glass Design
The Liquid Glass design language is introduced in iOS 26, providing a harmonious aesthetic throughout the operating system. This upgrade ensures that the Messages app now integrates effortlessly with the overall style of iOS, offering a more visually pleasing user interface.
Live Translation
Thanks to Apple Intelligence, the new Live Translation feature facilitates seamless communication across various languages. Translations are displayed in real-time within messages, eliminating language obstacles and promoting smoother conversations, whether in English, Spanish, or other supported tongues.
Screen Messages from Unknown Senders
iOS 26 enhances security and organization with the introduction of a specific folder for messages from unknown senders. These messages stay muted until users choose to accept them. Users can identify senders as known, seek additional information, or remove unwanted messages, boosting control over their inbox.
Custom Backgrounds
Inspired by WhatsApp, iOS 26 now enables users to customize group chats with personalized backgrounds. Whether selecting a solid hue, a personal image, or an AI-generated picture via Image Playground, users can make their chats more visually appealing and distinctive.
Create Polls
Another feature taken from WhatsApp is the option to create polls within conversations. With help from Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 can recommend polls based on chat topics, simplifying the process of gathering feedback and making group decisions.
Typing Indicators
To improve group chat dynamics, iOS 26 presents typing indicators that reveal exactly who is typing in real-time. This feature, once restricted to a generic typing bubble, now identifies the individual writing a message, enhancing clarity in group discussions.
Apple Cash Integration
The Messages app now facilitates Apple Cash transactions within group chats. Users can effortlessly request, send, and receive Apple Cash, streamlining financial exchanges and making payment management convenient without exiting the conversation.
Conclusion
Apple’s iOS 26 update for the Messages app introduces a plethora of features that resonate with popular messaging services like WhatsApp. From visual upgrades to practical enhancements, these features are set to make iMessage more competitive and user-centric.
Q&A Session
What is the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26?
The Liquid Glass design delivers a cohesive aesthetic across iOS, ensuring the Messages app maintains consistency with the rest of the operating system.
How does Live Translation work in iOS 26?
Live Translation in iOS 26 enables real-time translations within messages, allowing users to communicate across languages with ease.
Can I customize backgrounds in iMessage with iOS 26?
Yes, iOS 26 allows you to personalize group chats by selecting custom backgrounds, which may include colors, photos, or AI-generated images.
What new feature helps manage messages from unknown senders?
iOS 26 brings a dedicated folder for unknown senders, permitting users to screen, identify, or remove these messages before accepting them.
How does the typing indicator feature improve group chats in iOS 26?
The typing indicator in iOS 26 identifies who is typing in a group chat, improving communication by pinpointing exactly who is crafting a message.
Is Apple Cash integrated into the Messages app in iOS 26?
Yes, users can now send, receive, and request Apple Cash directly within group chats, simplifying financial transactions.
