Apple's WWDC 2023 is just around the corner, and as always, we are expecting the Cupertino company to wow us with new features baked in their new operating systems. Whilst there are a lot of improvements that we want to see included in the next versions of their operating system, I am particularly zeroing in on Messages app, Apple's default messaging platform that supports SMS and iMessage. Just to get this out of the way, no, I do not wish, nor do I expect, Apple to include Rich Communication Services (RCS), which Google has been shaming them about for the past several years already.
I do not have a long wish list for the Messages app, just a few that I think will enhance the overall functionality and experience for this all-in-one messaging application. Here goes, in no particular order:
1. More Tapback Options
For the longest time, we have been limited with the heart, thumbs up, thumbs down, Ha Ha, double exclamation point and a question mark. I think that it is time to expand this and allow the user to add more, or at least provide a way for the user to select the top 6 from a wider range of choices.
2. Quote when Forwarding
The app can forward one or more messages, but there is no way to know who the source of the forwarded message is. Adding a way to quote the original source, specially when forwarding multiple messages, surely beats taking a screenshot and post it. Something like
"Forwarded from [Johnny Appleseed]: ain't this cool?".
3. Save Messages
Right now, you need a third-party application to save messages off of the app. Paired with #2 above, saving an entire conversation would be great. There are a number of times when taking screenshots just won't cut it.
4. Expanding Effects
Similar to Tapbacks, expanding this would be refreshing. In fact, having this be part of the Messages App Store, where developers can add custom effects, would be best.
5. Messages App Store
Speaking of App Store, Apple has stopped promoting this. This has been one of the powerful feature of the app - flexibility. Wasted potential, IMHO.
6. More Shortcut Support
Currently, Shortcut allows you to send a message, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to add some text or screen effects, too?
The Messages app is probably the most used application on the iPhone, so getting some love from Apple means a ton for us users. So what do you think? Did I miss a feature or two?