Apple stepped up its game in order to go head-on against Facebook and Google by unveiling the iOS 10. The company made the announcement during the annual developer conference held in San Francisco this week. Residents of Arizona can look forward to an improved iMessage app once the new iOS update releases this fall.
One of the biggest changes that Apple has brought to the iMessage app is enabling third-party developers to plug into the company’s messaging platform. This is similar to how such third-party apps work for the successful Facebook Messenger. iPhone and iPad users will be able to buy movie tickets, food items, etc. without having to leave the conversation anymore.
There’s also no need for users to search through the emoji library. Simply tapping on a word will enable users to replace it with the corresponding emoji. As users keep typing, the keyboard will suggest the emoji’s they can use during a conversation.
Another cool feature is the ability to hand-write notes or sketch. The technology used here is the same ‘Digital Touch’ one that Apple Watch has. Images and texts can also be scribbled over. This is an awesome feature to have for sending customized messages to each other.
The updated iMessage also emphasizes privacy. Through, what Apple calls ‘Invisible Ink’ users can send each other images or texts that are scrambled. The sent content can be easily unscrambled by swiping a finger across the received message.
The new ‘Tapback’ feature allows users to quickly respond to a message without having to type an answer. Users will be given the ability to quickly send icons such as a thumbs up, a thumbs down, or a heart, etc. for responding purposes. Text bubbles can also be customized for emphasis.
Some messages will be able to change the background. For example, fireworks might explode in the background when a ‘Happy New Year’ message is sent.
The camera viewfinder can also be accessed through the updated iMessage. This feature is very useful if you want to quickly take a picture and share it with your friends during a conversation. Songs can also be shared without having to leave iMessage. Similar to Facebook Messenger shared links will show the website’s title and artwork. Shared video clips will play automatically.
The new Apple iMessage features included in the upcoming iOS 10 do look very appealing. Let’s see how the public responds once the update is released.
