iOS 18 adds quick-access Text Effects to Messages

You’ve long been able to add birthday balloons and other effects to Messages, but in iOS 18 your very words can shake, rattle, and explode.

Every year, Apple finds something new to add to Messages, and it’s so successful at it that US Senators regard the app as an essential utility that all smartphone users should have. This year, one update is arguably minor, but is also simple — and the combination could make it very popular.

The new feature is called Text Effects and you apply your choice of its options after you’ve written a message, but not yet sent it. Unlike the new Check In or Send Later options, though, Text Effects are not a separate app.

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