Apple’s Messages app has undergone significant enhancements over the past year, and with the release of iOS 26, users can expect even more exciting updates. Among the most talked-about changes is a streamlined approach to handling unwanted spam texts, a common annoyance for many smartphone users. This update aims to improve the overall messaging experience and provide users with greater control over their communications.
The highlight of the new features in iOS 26 is the introduction of an automatic spam screening tool. While the innovative Liquid Glass design of the iPhone is grabbing headlines, the improvements to the Messages app are equally noteworthy. With this new feature, users can now silence texts from unknown numbers, effectively filtering out potential spam messages.
When you update to iOS 26, the Messages app will prompt you to enable the spam screening feature. If you choose to activate it, two significant changes will occur:
Text messages identified as potential spam will no longer trigger notifications. These messages will be relocated to a dedicated section within the app.This capability to silence unwanted notifications serves as a valuable enhancement, allowing users to maintain focus without the disruption of spam messages. However, users will still have access to these messages through the filtering tool located in the top-right corner of the Messages app.
The filtering tool in iOS 26 allows users to switch between various categories of messages, enhancing the organization of their conversations. The four available sections include:
Messages Unknown Senders Spam Recently DeletedUsers have the flexibility to enable or disable screening for both Unknown Senders and Spam, ensuring they can customize their messaging experience according to their preferences. Even when messages from unknown senders are hidden from the main conversation view, a visual prompt on the filters button will notify users if there are any screened texts waiting for review. This feature helps ensure that no important messages are overlooked.
With the new spam screening tools in iOS 26, Apple aims to enhance user experience and minimize the frustration caused by unwanted texts. Are you planning to use these new features in the Messages app? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below.
As you embrace the latest features of iOS 26 and the improved Messages app, don’t forget to check out the best iPhone accessories that can complement your device. From protective cases to innovative chargers, there’s a wide range of products designed to enhance your iPhone experience.