In iOS 26, Apple has finally brought chat backgrounds to the Messages app. Now users can set a background image or animation in their iMessage chats and make using the Messages app more fun.
When you set a background for the chat, it is set for both parties. So you and your friend will see the same background. If they decide to change the background, then their favorite background will also appear on your device.
In this guide, we have shared detailed instructions on how you can change chat background in the Messages app and set a background image or animation as a chat’s background.
Messages app features a bunch of animated backgrounds, including Sky, Water, Aurora, and more. Each of them comes with multiple variants with different colors and looks.
Change Chat Background In Messages
- Launch the Messages app and open the chat you want to set the background in.
- Then tap on your friend’s name from the top. This will take you to the info page.
- Here, you have to tap on the Backgrounds tab at the top.
- As you do, you will get access to a wide range of backgrounds and animations. You can tap on each of the background suggestions to see how they will look in the chat.
- Once you are satisfied with a background, you can tap on the tick button at the top, and your chosen background will be applied for you and your friend right away.
In addition to normal one-to-one chats, you can also apply backgrounds in iMessage group chats, which is cool.
You can even use the Playgrounds feature to generate a unique background for your chat using Apple Intelligence.
That’s it, this is how you can change iMessage chat backgrounds in iOS 26 or later. With this small change, Apple has made the Messages app more personalized and given a fun way to make the app match their personality
