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.
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Green bubbles matter too
Here's how to send and receive SMS messages on your iPad or Mac
Most people know how to receive iMessages on iPads and Macs, but did you know you can do it with SMS too? If you just got a Mac or iPad and want to send texts without having to pick up your iPhone, here's how to set that up — as easy as 1, 2, 3!
Shut it down
Here's how you can block unwanted contacts in Messages and FaceTime for Mac
Learn how to keep unwanted contacts from getting in touch with you through Messages and FaceTime for macOS.
Messages grows up
Here's how to send Memoji stickers, GIFs, and more in Messages for Mac
Apple has made significant changes to the Messages app in macOS in recent years. Here's how to get the most out of it.
Roger roger
Rogers rolls out support for iMessage Business Chat
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.
Secure
Google, Verizon are bringing RCS messaging to Android users — but not Apple
Verizon has today announced a move that will see all of its future Android phones ship with Android Messages, enabling RCS as default for everyone. RCS is the replacement for the outgoing SMS platform and enables features like encryption, better message support, and more. But Apple isn't in on the act.
catalyst
Apple Catalyst could soon unlock mobile Messages features on Mac
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Tools you love to use in the Messages app on iOS and iPadOS could soon make the jump to Mac. Here's how.
catalyst
iOS 14 leak suggests Apple working on Catalyst version of Messages for Mac
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.
handle that group chat
How to manage group messages on a Mac
Are you too popular? Do you have too many group chats and need to manage them all? Here's how to do it all on the Mac.
How to delete individual iMessages in Messages for Mac
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If you use your Mac for iMessage, you probably already know you can delete iMessage threads but what about deleting single iMessages on the Mac? We've already covered deleting individual messages in iOS 7 so here's how to delete them in the Messages for Mac app: