Updated:09/06/2025
Did you know iMessage hasn’t changed much in over a decade? While WhatsApp, Telegram, and even Instagram have added flashy new features, iMessage has stuck to the basics. But that might be changing soon with iOS 26. A new report hints at big iMessage upgrades like chat backgrounds and polls.
What’s Coming to iMessage in iOS 26?
We’ve researched what to expect from Apple’s WWDC 2025, and the leaks are pretty exciting. Here’s what we found based on trusted reports like Bloomberg and 9to5Mac:
- Polls in Chat:
According to 9to5Mac, Apple is working on polls for iMessage. These polls could use "Apple Intelligence," Apple’s rumored AI system. It might even suggest poll questions based on your chats.
But wait, does this mean Apple is reading your messages? That’s the real question. If true, this could raise privacy concerns for many users.
- Custom Chat Backgrounds:
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman revealed that iMessage will let users set custom chat backgrounds. These backgrounds will sync across devices and even show up for the person you're chatting with.
We tested similar features in apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. In our opinion, it works better when background changes stay personal, not public.
Should Apple make this an optional feature? That’s something users will likely debate.
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Is This Enough for iOS 26?
Honestly, we expected more. iMessage has a lot of catching up to do. We've analyzed past updates and found Apple often plays it safe with iMessage. If polls and backgrounds are the highlights of iOS 26, many users might be disappointed.
Some features we still wish for:
1) Better group chat controls
2) Message reactions like Discord
3) Scheduled messages
4) Cross-platform support
Apple might have more surprises in store, but so far, the leak doesn't promise a full upgrade, just cosmetic touches and some smart suggestions.
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Privacy or Smart Features: Can We Have Both?
The integration of AI into iMessage polls is cool but also a little scary. If Apple starts analyzing conversations to offer smart suggestions, how safe are your private messages?
In our observation, Apple always markets itself as a privacy-first brand. So we’re guessing any AI features will work on-device, not on servers. But we’ll know for sure at WWDC.
Read: Samsung Galaxy S26 Leaks: What We Know So Far
Key Takeaways
• iMessage may soon get chat backgrounds and polls with iOS 26.
• Polls could be powered by Apple Intelligence, raising privacy questions.
•Backgrounds will sync between users, which may not appeal to everyone.
•No major overhaul expected, but Apple could still surprise us at WWDC.
Stay tuned to Tech Auto Hub for the latest iOS 26 updates, full WWDC coverage, and tech news that actually helps you.
