iMessage gets major upgrade: Here are five new features for iPhone users
Communication across languages is also getting a huge boost, thanks to the Live translation feature in Messages.
Apple has announced major upgrades to the Messages app in its latest software update, iOS 26 and Kenyans, especially iPhone lovers, have every reason to get excited.
Among the features is the ability to set custom backgrounds in chats, making your conversations more personal and vibrant.
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Even better, when you update the background in a one-on-one chat, the person on the other end will see it too, just like Instagram shared themes.
It is a small but fun way to express your vibe or match with someone you are close to.
For those active in group chats, Apple has finally added the polls feature. Now, you can easily create a poll to ask for opinions or settle plans, like where to meet or what to contribute. Powered by Apple Intelligence, the phone can even suggest creating a poll automatically when it senses a conversation needs one.
In privacy, Apple now lets you screen messages from unknown senders. Meaning any message from a number you do not know gets sent to a special folder until you decide whether to reply, ignore, or ask for more details.
So, users can now enjoy their day with minimal interruptions from unknown users.
Communication across languages is also getting a huge boost, thanks to the Live translation feature in Messages.
Whether it is text or audio, the feature will enable users to translate conversations instantly, making it easier for Kenyans chatting with friends, clients, new people or relatives abroad.
Other updates include the ability to send and receive Apple Cash in group chats and the long-awaited arrival of typing indicators in group messages.
Apple users will be able to see when someone is replying, recording or typing their messages, just like on WhatsApp.
With iOS 26, Apple is upping its game in the messaging space, making iMessage more expressive, smarter, and safer.
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