iOS 804: iMessage Apps - Navigating the Junk Drawer of iOS Features

About this episode

The episode explores the evolution of iMessage apps and their relevance in the current messaging landscape.

Why do iMessage apps feel like a forgotten experiment, and what buried gems are still hiding behind that plus button? Dan Moren joins the show to unpack which built-in features now outshine their third-party predecessors and what that says about Apple's approach to messaging. iMessage apps' evolution, developer challenges, and user engagement declines Default iMessage features vs. true apps Sticker packs, sharing GIFs, and gameplay in Messages lose relevance Apple's default iMessage tools—photos, polls, cash, check in, send later Nuances of audio messages, dictation, and in-app differences Tips for faster photo sharing and rearranging iMessage features Real-world uses and practical limitations of iMessage's check-in feature Notable third-party iMessage app recommendations and personal favorites New: Apple's 2026 accessibility updates, including voice control, real-time captions, and AI-powered magnifier Picks of the Week: Indigo cross-network social app and Wipr 2 content filter Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Dan Moren Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv . Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love…

People in this episode

Host: Mikah Sargent

Guest: Dan Moren

Topics covered

• iMessage apps
• Apple features
• messaging
• user engagement
• accessibility updates
• third-party apps

Keywords

• iMessage apps
• Apple
• messaging features
• third-party apps
• accessibility
• photo sharing
• audio messages

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Apple

Products: iMessage, Indigo, Wipr 2

More episodes of iOS Today (Video)

• iOS 806: What's New in iOS 27? - New Siri AI Learns Personal Context Understanding! · June 11, 2026 · 56 min
• iOS 805: WWDC: What To Expect - Has Apple Finally Figured Out Smarter Siri? · June 4, 2026 · 36 min
• iOS 803: Step Up Your Apple Watch Game - Power User Tips for Your Wrist · May 21, 2026 · 1h 4m
• iOS 802: What's New in iOS 26.5 - Pride Luminance, CarPlay AI Chatbots, & More! · May 14, 2026 · 54 min
• iOS 801: Take a Shot With Camera Apps - Capture Pics Like a Pro · May 7, 2026 · 35 min
• iOS 800: Our Top Favorites - Celebrating 800 Episodes With iOS Essentials! · April 30, 2026 · 53 min