It's not exactly groundbreaking (or even original), but Apple's announcement during its WWDC keynote that you'll be able to add a background image in Messages could save me and my friend groups.
Apple announced that as part of its new iOS 26 -- yes, the name is confirmed -- Messages will get a few upgrades, specifically in group chats.
Similar to what you can do in Meta's WhatsApp, you'll now be able to change the background color or image for group chats. This can particularly come in handy when you have multiple chats with overlapping members. I have one friend group with dozens of members, but just a handful that go on trips together.Â
That's led to some awkward moments when some members of the bigger group get included in messages that are just for our travel group. The only way to distinguish them is in the name of the group, but a customized background could help me quickly identify my travel buddies (the custom background could be a beach scene, for example) from the larger group.
Plus, the upgrade will show a typing bubble (like you'd see in a one on one message) so I can see who's in the process of writing a text. Again, it's a small thing, but it lets the speaker indicate they have a followup. So we can all pause before we jump in with our opinions. And speaking of opinions, you'll also be able to add polls. Say goodbye 40 messages from everyone debating where to eat.Â
The Message update isn't exactly earth-shattering, but will make my life a little easier and less embarrassing.