Apple’s iOS 17 update brought a range of new features to iMessage, but there are still some basic functions missing that users have been hoping for. Despite improvements such as audio message transcription and a revamped tools menu, iMessage does not yet have an archive function, locked chats, bookmarking messages, disappearing messages, or a more accurate FaceTime button. These missing features have long been available on other messaging apps, leaving Apple users eager for a more streamlined and secure messaging experience.
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Basic Features Missing in Apple’s iMessage
An archive function, to keep things tidy
One basic feature that is missing in Apple’s iMessage is an archive function. This feature is commonly found in other messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal. The archive function allows users to relegate chats to a separate folder, keeping the main messages window streamlined and clear of conversations that are not regularly used. For example, if a user no longer plans to text a plumber but wants to keep the thread for reference, archiving the chat allows them to remove it from their main messages window while still keeping it accessible if needed in the future. It is surprising that Apple has not yet added this basic feature to iMessage.
Locked chats, to provide extra protection from prying eyes
Despite Apple’s focus on privacy and its end-to-end encryption in iMessage, one feature that is still missing is locked chats. Locked chats are available in messaging apps like WhatsApp and provide an extra layer of security by requiring biometric authentication before someone can access the chat thread. This feature is useful in scenarios where someone else, such as children, need to use the Messages app but there is a risk of them sending messages to unintended recipients. With locked chats, users can ensure that only authorized individuals can access specific chat threads, preventing accidental or unauthorized messages from being sent.
Bookmark messages, to quickly access them later
iMessage lacks a basic feature that has been present in other messaging apps for years, which is the ability to bookmark messages. Bookmarking messages allows users to tag important messages and access them easily in a dedicated section of the app. This feature is especially useful for saving recipes, addresses, or important dates. Unlike searching for specific keywords in messages, bookmarking allows users to quickly find important messages without relying on their memory. It is surprising that Apple has not implemented this feature in iMessage considering its usefulness in organizing and accessing important information.
Disappearing messages, to help outwit abusers
Another missing feature in iMessage is disappearing messages. Disappearing messages are messages that automatically disappear after being viewed by the recipient or after a certain time limit. This feature is particularly valuable in situations where users want to share sensitive or personal information that they do not want to exist permanently. Disappearing messages also have practical applications for individuals in domestic abuse settings, allowing them to communicate more honestly and safely without leaving a digital trail. It is essential to prioritize user safety and privacy by implementing disappearing messages in iMessage.
A more accurate FaceTime button, to avoid confusion
Although a minor issue compared to the previous feature gaps, the FaceTime button in iMessage could benefit from a redesign for improved clarity. Currently, the FaceTime call button in the message thread is represented by a video camera icon, often leading users to assume that tapping it initiates a video call. However, the button actually presents a dropdown menu where users can choose between making a video call or an audio call. Separating the FaceTime audio and video buttons at the top of chat threads with individual buttons would be less confusing and allow users to initiate their preferred call type more easily.
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Other Basic Features Missing
In addition to the basic features mentioned earlier, there are several other features that are missing in Apple’s iMessage. These missing features are commonly found in other messaging apps and would enhance the overall user experience of iMessage.
Delete individual messages
iMessage lacks the ability to delete individual messages within a conversation. The current option only allows users to delete an entire conversation, which may not be ideal in situations where only specific messages need to be removed.
Scheduled messages
Scheduled messages is a feature found in many messaging apps that allows users to compose a message and set a specific time for it to be sent. This feature can be useful for sending reminders or messages at a later time when users may not be available to manually send them.
Message reactions
Message reactions, similar to those found in popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, allow users to react to specific messages with emojis or predefined symbols. This feature adds a layer of expression and interactivity to conversations.
Customizable message appearance
While iMessage offers limited options for customizing message appearance, such as changing the bubble color, it lacks more extensive customization options like choosing different fonts, bubble shapes, or background themes. Allowing users to personalize their messaging experience would add a touch of individuality.
Quick reply options
Quick reply options, commonly available in other messaging apps, enable users to respond to messages with canned or predefined responses. This feature saves time and allows for quick and convenient replies, especially when users are busy or unable to type a full response.
Delivery and read receipts
Although iMessage already includes read receipts for messages, it lacks the ability to disable this feature or provide delivery receipts for sent messages. Giving users control over read receipts and the ability to see if their messages were successfully delivered would enhance privacy and communication transparency.
Overall, while Apple’s iMessage offers various features and improvements with every iOS update, there are still several basic features that are missing. Implementing an archive function, locked chats, bookmark messages, disappearing messages, a more accurate FaceTime button, and additional features like deleting individual messages, scheduled messages, message reactions, customizable message appearance, quick reply options, and delivery and read receipts would greatly enhance the functionality and user experience of iMessage. It is crucial for Apple to prioritize these missing features to stay competitive with other messaging apps and meet the evolving needs and expectations of its users.
