iOS 26 Messages brings transformative new group chat features
With the release of iOS 26, Apple users encountered a notable bug that disrupted group messaging functionality. Many users reported that messages sent to existing group chats were being delivered as individual messages instead, causing confusion and frustration, especially in chats that included non-iPhone numbers. This issue sparked considerable discussion on platforms like Reddit, where users expressed their annoyance. However, in the weeks following the update, Apple appears to have addressed this glitch, allowing users to refocus their attention on the exciting new features that iOS 26 has introduced.
Among the most talked-about enhancements are the long-awaited typing indicator, polls, Apple Cash integration, customizable backgrounds, and the ability to add contacts directly within group chats. The typing indicator, which was previously exclusive to one-on-one conversations, is now available in group chats, allowing participants to see when someone is composing a message. While some users have expressed a desire to disable this feature—citing it as unnecessary—many find it adds a new layer of engagement to group interactions. Polls have also been introduced, which Mashable’s Alex Perry praised as a fun tool for not just coordinating dinner plans but also for settling quirky inside jokes among friends.
Additionally, the integration of Apple Cash allows users to easily send money within group chats, a feature that could simplify settling expenses after group outings or events. Although some users may still prefer other money transfer apps like Venmo or CashApp, the convenience of having this feature built into iMessage could encourage more users to give it a try. Lastly, the ability to change group chat backgrounds adds a personal touch, allowing users to express their creativity—one user even shared a humorous edit of their cat wearing jeans. Overall, these updates have transformed group messaging on iOS, making it not only more functional but also more enjoyable.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyHmwms5IlM
When
iOS 26
first dropped, there was one pretty huge group chat bug.
Some
users complained
that their messages to existing group chats were sent as individual chats instead of chats to the entire group, and didn’t show in the group chat at all. A
user on Reddit said
the bug was particularly stark with chats that included numbers that weren’t tied to iPhones.
But in the few weeks since, that bug seems to be fixed, and users have begun to shift their focus away from the frustrations of a new iOS system and towards the fun new features.
9to5Mac
wrote up a rundown of the five most intriguing features, including the typing indicator, polls, Apple Cash, background changing, and adding contacts.
The typing indicator was once reserved for one-on-one conversations, but iOS 26 brought the text bubble to group chats. Of course, not everyone is elated (
one user wrote on Reddit
looking for a way to remove it since they “really don’t want” the feature), but personally, I find it cool.
Group chats also got polls, which
Mashable’s Alex Perry
called “one of my favorite” new features after trying it out in beta, saying it is “nominally a feature for deciding where to get dinner, but will really be a feature that’s used to settle incredibly arcane, nonsensical inside-joke arguments among friend groups.”
Groups can also send Apple Cash. I don’t personally know anyone who uses this form of money transferring before using Venmo, CashApp, Zelle, or, of course, literal cash, but I suppose if you’re interested in settling money after a bachelorette trip, I could see this being useful.
You can also change the background of a group chat. One of my group chats has changed to a photo of my cat edited to look like he’s wearing jeans.
The options, fellas? They’re endless.
