Customize Messages Backgrounds in iOS 26: A Step-by-Step Guide

With the arrival of iOS 26, your iPhone just got a whole lot more expressive! The latest update brings numerous exciting features, and one that stands out is the ability to personalize your Messages backgrounds. While many third-party messaging apps have offered this for quite some time, it’s a welcome addition to the native Messages app.

This feature adds an extra layer of fun and personalization to your conversations, allowing you to set a background that matches your mood or simply makes the chat more visually appealing.

How to Add a Background to Any Conversation in Messages

If you're new to iOS 26, or just haven’t explored this feature yet, follow these simple steps:

1. Open a Conversation: Start by opening the Messages conversation you want to customize.

2. Tap Contact Image: Tap on the contact image located at the top of the conversation to open the contact profile.

3. Select Backgrounds: You'll see an option labeled 'Backgrounds' next to the 'Info' section. Tap on it.

4. Choose Your Background: A selection of default backgrounds, along with any images or wallpapers you have stored on your device, will be displayed. Browse through the options and select the one that best suits your conversation.

5. Confirm Your Choice: Once you've chosen a background, it will display a preview. If you’re happy with the look, tap on the 'Done' icon in the top right corner.

That’s it! The background will now be visible to everyone participating in the conversation. Whenever someone changes the background, a notification indicating the change will appear below the latest message.

The ability to personalize your Messages backgrounds adds a much-needed touch of individuality to your conversations. What other features are you enjoying in iOS 26? Let us know!