Messages

Messages is Apple's instant messaging application for OS X. The software was originally called iChat, but Apple changed the name to Messages in 2012 with the release of OS X Mountain Lion. Messages supports Apple's iMessage service, an alternative to SMS and MMS that enables Mac and iOS device users to send text, documents, photos, video and other data to one another. Messages also supports other instant messaging protocols, including AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo Messenger, Google Talk, and Jabber. And with OS X Yosemite and iOS 8's new "continuity" integration, your Mac will also be able to see and respond to SMS and MMS messages when paired with your iPhone.

Latest about Messages

Messages app displayed on an iPhone

Google beats Apple to the punch with this long-requested messages feature

By Joe Wituschek published

Google Messages is testing out the ability to react to a message with any emoji you want.

Ios 14 Messages Groups Inline Replies Mentions

Is iMessage down? Some people can't send messages right now [Fixed]

By Oliver Haslam published

Some users report that they are currently unable to send iMessages, but Apple's service status page hasn't been updated yet.

Ios 14 Messages Groups Inline Replies Mentions

iMessage is less secure than WhatsApp, Zuck rants

By Oliver Haslam published

Mark Zuckerberg says that WhatsApp is more secure than iMessage in a new post to Instagram.

Messages on Mac

How to forward SMS messages to your iPad and Mac

By Adam Oram published

Messages Macos Big Sur

How to block FaceTime calls and iMessages on the Mac

By Adam Oram, Joseph Keller published

Learn how to keep unwanted contacts from getting in touch with you through Messages and FaceTime for macOS.

macOS Big Sur Preview Messages

How to use Memoji stickers, screen effects, and apps in Messages for Mac

By Bryan M Wolfe, Adam Oram published

Apple has made significant changes to the Messages app in macOS in recent years. Here's how to get the most out of it.

Ios 14 Messages Groups Inline Replies Mentions

Rogers rolls out support for iMessage Business Chat

By Oliver Haslam published

Carrier Rogers now supports Apple's iMessage Business Chat for the first time, although it doesn't appear to have actually told anyone about the move.

Ios 14 Messages Groups Inline Replies Mentions

Google, Verizon are bringing RCS messaging to Android users — but not Apple

By Oliver Haslam published

Apple Catalyst

Message extensions, stickers and games could soon come to Mac

By Bryan M Wolfe published

Tools you love to use in the Messages app on iOS and iPadOS could soon make the jump to Mac. Here's how.

Messages app on Mac

iOS 14 leak suggests Apple working on Catalyst version of Messages for Mac

By Stephen Warwick published

A new iOS 14 leak suggests Apple might be working on a Catalyst version of Messages for Mac, helping to bring it up to speed with the iOS version.

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