**macOS Tahoe 26: New Features in Messages**
macOS Tahoe 26 aims to elevate the Messages app with a host of thrilling features focused on enhancing user experience. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect later this year.
### Backgrounds
A key feature in macOS Tahoe is the option to personalize message threads with backgrounds. Users can choose from a broad selection of preloaded backgrounds, utilize images from their Photos library, or design unique images through Image Playground.
### Polls
The innovative polling function empowers users to generate polls within conversations, simplifying the process of reaching group decisions, like selecting a restaurant or organizing an event. Results refresh in real-time, and for users with Apple Intelligence support, polls can be auto-suggested based on the context of the conversation.
### Group Message Typing Indicators
A much-anticipated feature, typing indicators in group messages will enable users to identify who is currently typing, enriching the conversational flow and interaction among participants.
### Better Filtering and Spam Protection
To address the rising challenge of spam, macOS Tahoe brings forth on-device spam detection that automatically filters out undesired messages. Users can explore a new “Unknown Senders” section to handle communications from unfamiliar contacts, allowing them to mark those senders as known or remove them.
### Improved Search
The search capabilities in Messages have been revamped to accommodate more natural language inquiries. For example, users can look up specific events or topics, and the app will showcase relevant conversations, courtesy of Apple Intelligence’s features.
### Live Translation
Live Translation is an innovative feature that permits messages to be translated in real-time as they are written. This is especially beneficial for users engaging with friends while traveling internationally, as messages can be sent and received in the recipient’s preferred language instantly.
### Conversation Details
The conversation details interface has undergone a redesign for simpler access to shared content. Users can view photos, links, and locations exchanged in a conversation, manage group members, and utilize translation features more effortlessly.
### Wrap Up
macOS Tahoe 26 is anticipated to debut later this fall, with a public beta becoming available shortly. The new functionalities in the Messages app are set to significantly enhance communication and user experience. Which features are you most excited about?
