Apple has announced a major update to the Messages app at WWDC 2025, adding a host of features designed to make conversations smarter, more organized, and more expressive. From screening unknown senders to long-awaited group typing indicators, iMessage is becoming more capable than ever.
Apple WWDC 2025 live: screen unknown senders without missing key info
A new Unknown Senders section will now hold messages from people outside your contacts. These messages are silenced by default but remain accessible in a dedicated spaceensuring you don’t miss important notifications like restaurant reservations or delivery updates. You can easily review, approve, or dismiss these conversations based on relevance.
Apple WWDC 2025 live: group typing indicators and Apple Cash in chats
After years of user requests, Apple is finally adding typing indicators in group chats — allowing users to see who’s responding in real time. Apple is also integrating Apple Cash into group messagesenabling easy peer-to-peer payments within chat groups.
Apple WWDC 2025 live: customizable backgrounds and intelligent polls
Messages now supports custom chat backgroundsoffering:
In addition, a new polls feature allows users to create and share polls directly within chats — from picking lunch spots to coordinating plans. Messages can also use AI to suggest polls when it detects situations where voting might be helpful.
These enhancements mark one of the most comprehensive updates to iMessage in years, aimed at improving both privacy and personalization while introducing real utility through AI-driven features.
