On June 6, Mark Gurman, a well-known Bloomberg reporter, broke the news on the X platform that Apple plans to bring a number of important updates to the Messages application in the next generation of iOS system (now temporarily named iOS 26, originally scheduled to iOS 19), including customizable chat backgrounds, group chat voting functions, etc., to further strengthen its social attributes.

Simulate WhatsApp: Custom chat backgrounds, supporting synchronization and animation styles

Gurman pointed out that the information app of iOS 26 will support user-defined chat backgrounds, and these backgrounds can be synchronized between users and groups, similar to the existing features of WhatsApp. Developer Nicolás Alvarez further revealed that Apple is developing a background generation tool based on Image Playground, allowing users to create three different styles of background: Animation, Illustration and Sketch, providing users with more personalized choices.

This update will make Apple's information applications more flexible in visual experience, meet users' personalized needs for the chat interface, and at the same time enhance the interaction consistency in group chat scenarios.

Added voting and translation functions to improve group chat efficiency

In addition to background customization, iOS 26 information applications will also be introducedGroup chat voting function, which facilitates users to make quick decisions, similar functions similar to WeChat or Telegram. In addition, Apple plans to joinAutomatic translation of foreign language messages, further break the language barrier and improve the fluency of cross-language communication.

Genmoji Upgrade: Mixmoji Combination Expression Creates a New Way of Playing

Another interesting feature isMixmoji, allowing users to combine two standard expressions (such as cake + balloon) to generate a brand new celebration theme Genmoji (Apple version custom expression). This function will enrich the user's expressions and enhance the fun of the message.

iOS 26 Message Application: Comprehensive Evolution of Social Experience

In general, Apple's upgrade of information applications in iOS 26 reflects its emphasis on social functions. From background customizationGo to Group chat tool, and then to AI-driven expression generationAs the development of iOS 26 advances, more details may be exposed one after another. Can Apple further narrow the gap with competitors such as WhatsApp and WeChat with these features? Worth looking forward to.