iOS 17 Messages App Redesign: What You Need to Know

Politics, News Sept. 21, 2023, 4:03 a.m.

In iOS 17, the Messages app sees a major redesign, relocating iMessage apps and shortcuts to a pop-up menu. Users can customize app order, and a hidden trick allows one-tap access to the Photos picker. Share your thoughts in the comments.

In iOS 17, Apple has introduced a series of noteworthy design alterations, most notably within the Messages app. The interface has undergone a significant overhaul, notably relocating access to iMessage apps and shortcuts to a novel pop-up menu. In this article, we'll delve into these changes and share a handy trick for swift access to the Photos picker.

The modifications made to the Messages app in iOS 17 initially sparked controversy during the early beta stages. Apple responded by refining the interface based on user feedback, yet even with these adjustments, users continue to grapple with the changes now that iOS 17 is accessible to all.

In iOS 17, a prominent addition is the new "+" button positioned alongside the text input field. Tapping on this icon reveals a full-screen pop-up menu, granting easy access to iMessage apps and the Photos app picker for image sharing. The interface conveniently displays a selection of quick access icons by default, accompanied by a "More" option that houses all installed iMessage apps.

To acclimate to this revamped interface in iOS 17, a practical tip is to customize the order in which these apps are displayed. Here's a simple guide to achieve this:

Additionally, this reordering feature extends to apps within the "More" section, offering seamless organization between visible and concealed iMessage apps.

However, a frequent grievance concerning the new Messages interface in iOS 17 is the added effort required to access the Photos app picker—an essential tool for most users. Did you know there's an undisclosed shortcut for one-tap access? Simply perform a long-press on the "+" icon, and the Photos interface will instantly appear, bypassing the need to navigate the full-screen menu entirely.

What are your thoughts on the revamped iMessage app interface in iOS 17? Have you adapted to the changes, or do you prefer the previous design? Share your opinions in the comments below.