Messages (Apple)

Messages is an instant messaging software application developed by Apple Inc. for its macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS platforms. The application allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other iOS or macOS users. Messages replaced iChat, Apple's previous instant messaging service, integrating features from iMessage, Apple's proprietary messaging service that operates across all of its devices.

History

Messages was introduced in 2011 as part of the iOS 5 update. It marked a significant shift in how Apple approached instant messaging, integrating SMS and MMS capabilities with the new iMessage protocol. This allowed users to send messages over the Internet, bypassing carrier charges associated with traditional SMS and MMS messages when messaging other Apple devices. In 2012, with the release of OS X Mountain Lion, Messages replaced iChat on macOS, bringing iMessage to the Mac for the first time.

Features

Messages supports sending various types of media including text, photos, videos, and documents. It also supports end-to-end encryption for iMessage conversations, ensuring that messages are only readable by the sender and recipient. Other features include:

• iMessage Apps: With the release of iOS 10, Messages introduced iMessage apps, allowing users to play games, send stickers, and use other interactive apps within conversations.
• Effects: Users can send messages with effects, such as balloons, confetti, or fireworks, to add a visual flair to their conversations.
• Digital Touch: Originally introduced on the Apple Watch, Digital Touch allows users to send sketches, taps, or even their heartbeat.
• Memoji and Animoji: Messages allows users to create and send animated characters that mimic their facial expressions, using the TrueDepth camera on supported devices.

iMessage

iMessage is the backbone of Messages, enabling users to send messages over the Internet. iMessage can automatically detect if a recipient is capable of receiving an iMessage. If not, the message defaults to SMS or MMS, ensuring seamless communication. iMessage also supports group messaging, read receipts, and typing indicators.

Integration with Other Apple Services

Messages is tightly integrated with other Apple services and applications. For example, users can send money to friends via Apple Pay within Messages or share their location through the app. The continuity feature allows users to start a conversation on one device and continue it on another, seamlessly.

Privacy and Security

Apple emphasizes privacy and security in Messages, especially with end-to-end encryption for iMessage. This means that even Apple cannot access the content of iMessage conversations. Additionally, Messages on iCloud offers synchronized messaging across devices while maintaining encryption.

Reception

Messages has been praised for its seamless integration across Apple devices and its encryption standards. However, it has also faced criticism, particularly for its exclusivity to Apple products, which can fragment communication with users on other platforms.

See Also

• Instant messaging
• Apple Inc.
• iOS
• macOS
• iPadOS
• watchOS