iOS 18 adds many new features to the Messages app, including the ability to schedule messages to be sent later, the ability to use any emoji or sticker as a Tapback, text formatting options like bold and italics, and much more.
iOS 18 is currently available in beta for members of the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta to follow in July. The software update should be widely released in September, and it is compatible with the iPhone XS and newer.
Below, we outline everything new in the Messages app on iOS 18, including some smaller changes that Apple's website does not mention.
Schedule Messages
iMessages can now be scheduled to be sent at a later date and time in both individual and group conversations. As of the first iOS 18 beta, you can schedule a message to be sent up to 14 days later. After scheduling a message, it becomes visible to you in a dotted-line bubble, with edit, delete, and reschedule options.
To access this feature, tap the plus sign to the left of the text field, tap More, and tap Send Later.
Tapback Changes
Redesigned Tapbacks
The classic set of Tapback icons are now colorful, including the heart, thumbs up, thumbs down, HA HA, exclamation marks, and question mark.
Emoji Tapbacks
You can now use any emoji or sticker as a Tapback.
Improved Visibility
It is now easier to view multiple Tapback reactions on a single message.
Text Formatting and Effects
Bold, italics, underline, and strikeout formatting is finally available for iMessages. In addition, there are all-new text effects that can animate words within an iMessage, including Big, Small, Shake, Nod, Explode, Ripple, Bloom, and Jitter.
Messages via Satellite U.S. Only
iOS 18 allows you to send and receive both iMessages and SMS messages via a satellite connection, even if there is no emergency.
This feature will work with messages, emoji, and Tapbacks, and all iMessages sent over satellite are secured with end-to-end encryption.
Messages via satellite is available on all iPhone 14 models and newer in the U.S. only at launch.
Hands-on demo videos show the feature in action.
RCS Support Later This Year
Apple's website says that iOS 18 will support RCS (Rich Communication Services) in the Messages app. While this feature is not enabled in the first iOS 18 beta, Apple said it will be rolled out later this year, likely by time iOS 18 is widely released.
WWDC keynote slide confirming RCS support on iOS 18RCS support will result in the following improvements to the default messaging experience between iPhones and Android devices:
- Higher-resolution photos and videos
- Audio messages
- Typing indicators
- Read receipts
- Wi-Fi messaging
- Improved group chats, including the ability for iPhone users to leave a conversation that includes Android users
SMS continues to be supported as well.
Emoji and Link Card Changes
When you send a message with only a single emoji, it now appears even larger than before.
Link cards are now more colorful, with the background better matching the linked content.
For some links, you can now choose between full-size and compact link cards, and there is an option to send a link as plain text instead.
Other Changes
- Any app can be locked behind Face ID, Touch ID, or an iPhone's passcode on iOS 18, including the Messages app.
- iOS 18 can solve math equations in the text field of any app, including the Messages app.
- iOS 18 adds contact photos next to names in the Messages app on CarPlay.
