iMessage gets competitive new features in iOS 16 [WWDC22]

iMessage gets competitive new features in iOS 16 [WWDC22]

In iOS 16, you'll be able to edit your iMessages to ensure you don't accidentally call your boss Babe... again.
Photo: Apple

iMessage is arguably one of the biggest chat services on the market, largely thanks to its deep integration with iPhone. Announced at the WWDC keynote, a handful of new iMessage updates are going to make it even more competitive as a chat service.

iMessage gets an edit button

The first big feature announced for iMessage was the ability to edit messages after they are sent. Long-pressing on the message, you can select edit. This allows you to fix a type-o or make a change to ensure that the recipient sees what you intended.

Similar to other chat services, edited messages are flagged with a label to indicate they have been modified so the recipient knows something changed. This adds a layer of transparency while allowing you to communicate most effectively.

Unsend an iMessage

Accidentally sent a coworker a message meant for your spouse? Now you can wipe that embarrassing moment from your conversation.
Photo: Apple

The next major feature is the ability to delete a sent message. Deleting a message removes it from the thread and replaces it with a label that a message was removed. This means that if you sent the wrong link, or sent a message to the wrong person, you can remove it to ensure things remain clear.

According to Apple’s press release, the options for editing and deleting are available for 15 minutes after the message is initially sent. You may recover or restore a deleted message for up to 30 days.

Marking iMessage unread

The third big feature in the iOS 16 update is the ability to mark an iMessage thread as unread. This is especially convenient if you need to respond at a later time, and don’t want to forget. This makes iMessage much more akin to services like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

None of these features are truly revolutionary in the chat and messaging app landscape. They do continue to show Apple’s continued commitment to making iMessage a competitive platform.

iOS 16 will be available later this year. Additional details are available in our WWDC 2022 Roundup.