iOS 26 upgrades Messages with long-overdue group chat tools and more

iMessage

• iOS 26 adds typing indicators, polls, and Apple Cash to group chats in Messages
• Group chat backgrounds can now be customised and shared with all participants
• Adding unknown group members to contacts is now simpler with a new button

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Apple has added several quality-of-life improvements to the Messages app with iOS 26, focusing specifically on group conversations. While one-to-one chats have received steady updates over the years, group chats have often lagged behind. With this release, Apple is addressing that gap by rolling out five new features aimed at making group messaging more practical and organised.

Typing indicators finally come to group chats

Typing indicators are not new to iMessage, but until now they only worked in one-on-one conversations. With iOS 26, typing indicators are now visible in group chats as well, provided participants are running the latest software. This allows users to see when someone in the group is actively responding, reducing interruptions and overlapping messages. It is a small change, but one that brings group chats closer to parity with private conversations.

Polls make group decisions easier

iOS 26 introduces built-in polls for group chats, offering a simple way to collect input without cluttering the conversation. The Polls option is accessed through the ‘+’ button in the message composer. Users can create polls for things like scheduling plans, food choices or travel decisions. On iPhones that support Apple Intelligence, the system can also suggest polls automatically, surfacing relevant options above the keyboard based on the context of the conversation.

Apple Cash now works in group conversations

Apple Cash has long been integrated into Messages, but it previously worked only in individual chats. With iOS 26, Apple Cash is now available in group conversations as well. This allows users to send or request money directly within a group thread, making it easier to split bills, settle shared expenses or collect payments after trips or events. The feature removes the need to switch apps or handle payments separately.

Shared backgrounds personalise group chats

Apple is also adding background customisation to group chats. Users can access this option by tapping the group icon at the top of the conversation and opening the details view. From there, a Backgrounds section lets users choose from built-in designs, use personal photos, or generate images using Image Playground. Any background applied to a group chat is visible to all participants, not just the person who sets it, making it a shared visual element rather than a personal preference.

Adding contacts from groups is now simpler

Group chats often include phone numbers that users have not saved to their contacts. In iOS 26, Apple has streamlined this process. By opening the group details screen, users can view a list of participants and quickly add unknown numbers to their contacts using a new ‘Add to Contacts’ button. This reduces friction when managing large or frequently changing group conversations.