Apple is introducing a new spam-filtering feature to its Messages app in iOS 26, aiming to reduce the growing problem of unwanted texts for iPhone users.
The new version of Messages will allow users to automatically screen messages from unknown numbers. If enabled, potential spam texts will be silenced and moved to a separate section within the app. This means users won’t receive notifications for these messages, but can still view them if needed.
The new filtering system introduces four message categories within the Messages app:
- Messages (from known contacts)
- Unknown Senders
- Spam
- Recently Deleted
A small prompt will appear on the filter icon whenever a new message is screened, helping users avoid missing important texts that might have been incorrectly flagged.
The spam-screening feature is part of a wider iOS 26 update, which also brings several enhancements to the Messages app, including conversation backgrounds, live translation, group typing indicators, and polls.
With these additions, iOS 26 continues Apple’s push to improve user control, reduce distractions, and enhance privacy. The full update is expected to roll out later this year.
