Apple Messages is a powerful yet often overlooked app for iPhone users. While it's primarily used for texting, it offers a range of features that can significantly enhance your messaging experience. Here are ten essential hacks to make the most of Messages, covering everything from privacy and security to productivity and convenience.
1. Filter Out Spam
Apple has made significant strides in protecting users from spam. The app now includes a spam filter that automatically sends suspected spam to a dedicated folder. You can also enable the 'Screen Unknown Senders' option to filter out messages from unknown senders. This feature allows you to set specific categories for unknown senders, such as 'Personal', 'Transactions', and 'Promotions'. By customizing these settings, you can ensure that your Messages app remains clutter-free and secure.
2. Remind Yourself to Text Later
Apple's Reminders app can be a powerful tool for staying on top of tasks. You can use it to set reminders for yourself when you want to text a friend but can't do so immediately. By creating a reminder with the 'When Messaging' feature, you can ensure that you don't forget important messages. This is particularly useful for those who often find themselves in situations where they need to send a message but can't at the moment.
3. Share Photos with a Hidden Shortcut
Sharing photos in Messages is made easier with a hidden shortcut. Instead of navigating through multiple menus, you can simply long-press the '+' icon to instantly access the Photos app. This streamlined process saves time and makes it more convenient to share photos with contacts.
4. Write Handwritten Notes
Messages offers a unique way to communicate by hand. By disabling Portrait Lock and accessing the keyboard in landscape mode, you can access a handwritten note feature. This allows you to draw on a blank canvas, making it a fun and creative way to express yourself in messages.
5. Prioritize Used Apps in the Quick Menu
The (+) menu offers various functions, but Apple's default layout may not suit everyone's preferences. You can rearrange the apps in this menu to prioritize the ones you use most frequently. This customization ensures that your most-used apps are easily accessible, making the quick menu more efficient and user-friendly.
6. Automatically Translate Conversations
Messages supports automatic translation, making it easier to communicate with friends or family who speak a different language. By enabling the 'Automatically Translate' setting, you can ensure that conversations with non-English speakers are seamlessly translated. This feature is particularly useful for international communication and can bridge language barriers.
7. Lock Your Messages App for Privacy
To enhance privacy, you can lock your Messages app using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. This ensures that even if you lend your iPhone to a friend or it's stolen, no one can access your private messages without your authentication. This feature provides an extra layer of security for your personal conversations.
8. Send Encrypted Messages to Android Friends
Apple's adoption of RCS support has improved texting with Android users. You can now send encrypted messages to Android friends using RCS, which supports end-to-end encryption (E2EE). By enabling 'RCS Messaging' and 'End-to-End Encryption (Beta)' in the settings, you can ensure secure communication with non-iPhone users.
9. Encrypt Messages Backup with Advanced Data Protection
While iMessages are end-to-end encrypted, your Messages backup might not be fully protected. Apple's Advanced Data Protection feature encrypts most of the data you back up to iCloud, including Messages. However, it's important to note that this encryption comes with a trade-off: Apple will no longer have access to your data, which means they won't be able to assist with recovery if needed.
10. Automatically Delete One-Time Passcodes
Messages includes a feature that automatically deletes one-time passcodes after use. By enabling this setting, you can ensure that your passcodes are securely removed from your Messages app, adding an extra layer of security to your authentication process.
