Apple Messages Gets a Refresh with iOS 27

While Apple is heavily focused on Siri AI in the upcoming iOS 27 update, there are plenty of other exciting upgrades under the surface. Case in point: The new update brings a number of new features to Messages, making it easier to communicate and collaborate with friends, family, and colleagues.

Customizable Voice Message Button

In a move that’s sure to please many, Apple has finally given users the option to remove the voice message button from the chat box. This feature, which can be enabled in Settings > Apps > Messages, allows users to choose from three options: Record Audio, Start Dictation, and None. By opting for the ‘None’ option, users can eliminate the accidental voice messages that often plague their conversations.

Speed Up Voice Notes in iMessage

iOS 27 introduces a new feature that lets users speed up voice notes in iMessage. When receiving a voice note, users can now tap the 1x button next to the voice note to reveal a playback speed menu, allowing them to listen to the note at 1.25x, 1.5x, or 2x speed. This feature is especially useful for users who receive long voice notes and want to quickly get to the point.

Use Siri AI to Write Your Messages

The new Siri AI in iOS 27 is fully integrated with Messages, allowing users to compose messages using voice commands. When opening a chat, users can tap the ‘Write with Siri’ button above the keyboard to ask Siri to write a message for them. This feature is exclusive to devices that support Apple Intelligence.

Drawing: A New iMessage App

iOS 27 introduces a new iMessage app called Drawing, which allows users to quickly draw something and send it to their contacts. Even if the recipient doesn’t have iOS 27, they’ll still be able to view the drawings sent. To access the Drawing app, users can press the + button next to the chat box and select the app from the list of available iMessage apps.

One-Tap Suggestions in Messages

iOS 27 also introduces one-tap suggestions in Messages for iPhones that support Apple Intelligence. This feature uses Siri AI to suggest relevant options based on the conversation, such as photos or links. For example, if someone asks for photos, Siri AI can suggest relevant options by recognizing keywords, locations, and people in the user’s photo library.

Automatic Resending of Failed Messages

Whenever a message fails to send, it typically sits in the Messages app with a big red exclamation mark next to it. With iOS 27, the iPhone will automatically try to resend these messages, ensuring that users don’t miss out on important conversations.

Individual Send Indicators for Each Message

iOS 27 fixes a common issue in Messages where large attachments, such as high-res photos or videos, can cause confusion in conversations. To address this, Apple is introducing individual send indicators for each message, making it easier for users to see which messages have been sent and which are still waiting to be delivered.

Search for Messages by Phone Number or Nickname

iOS 27 also introduces a new search feature in Messages that allows users to search for conversations by phone number or nickname. This feature is especially useful for users who have many contacts with similar names or phone numbers.

Consolidated Notifications for Message Reactions

When receiving multiple reactions to a message, the iPhone’s notifications can quickly become overwhelming. iOS 27 addresses this issue by consolidating notifications for multiple reactions, making it easier for users to stay on top of their conversations.

Inline Replies for RCS Messages

iOS 27 also introduces inline replies for RCS messages, making it easier for users to respond to specific messages in a conversation. This feature is especially useful for users who communicate with people on both iOS and Android devices.