Using the Messages app for iPhone, iPad and Mac, you can send iMessage messages with all your Apple friends and text messages. If you use iMessage, you can add effects to a message you send if desired.
The effects relate to the text message itself, or fill the screen. You can send a speech bubble loudly or fill the screen with confetti, fireworks or glitter. We explain how to use these iMessage effects in Messages.
Add effects to messages
- Write a new message or reply to an existing one
- Place your finger on the send button
- Wait a few moments until the effects screen appears
- Choose the desired effect
On the first page you can choose effects related to the text message itself and the associated bubble. This way you can send a message with a bang, loudly, softly or with invisible ink. Choose your animation and tap the send button.
Send full-screen effects
Follow the steps above, but then open the ‘Screen’ tab with a tap. Here you will find all kinds of effects covering the entire screen. You can choose from confetti, balloons, echo, fireworks, glitter, etc. Swipe from right to left to view the different full-screen effects. Make a selection and tap the arrow to send the message with a full-screen effect.
iMessage effects for Mac
Since macOS Big Sur, it is possible to play all message effects in the Messages app for Mac. You can also celebrate special moments by sending a message with an effect. To do this, type your message and click on the App Store icon next to the typing field. Then choose ‘Message effects’ and a desired animation. Click on the send button to send the message.
I can’t send or receive messages with an effect
If you apply the above and are still unable to send or receive messages with effects, you may have ‘Reduce Motion’ enabled. You can disable this via Settings â–¸ Accessibility â–¸ Motion â–¸ Reduce motion â–¸ enable the ‘Play effects automatically’ option. You will notice that you can now use the effect in Messages in combination with reduce movement.