iOS 26 and iPados 26: How finally to change the message wallpaper?

A functionality expected for a decade

While applications like WhatsApp or Telegram allow it for years, Apple had always kept control over the design of its messages application. For many users, this rigidity had become a symbol of the famous “closed garden” of the brand. So far we had to turn to the jailbreak To dare such personalization. But this era is over. With the new major update presented as a revolutionary by Apple, the Cupertino firm finally lets go of the ballast.

This novelty is part of a substantive trend at Apple, which consists in offering more personalization options to its users. We saw it with the complete overhaul of the locking screen, an initiative that marked a real turning point. This opening, formerly unthinkable, seems to become the new standard. The possibility of modifying the background of messages is therefore not a surprise, but rather a confirmation: Apple understood that the user experience also involves the appropriation of the interface.

More than a gadget: a new way of organizing your discussions

Beyond the purely aesthetic aspect, this functionality brings real comfort of use. By assigning a wallpaper or a color specific to each conversation, you can identify your interlocutors in the blink of an eye. A sober background for professional discussions, a family photo for the private group, a bright color for your best friend … The possibilities are endless and allow each exchange to be contextualized. “It is a subtle but powerful way to make the application less monolithic and more personal”as the Appleinsider article pointed out which revealed the trick. The impact on ergonomics is very real.

The step-by-step guide to customize your conversations

We have tested the functionality on the last beta of iOS 26 and manipulation is, as often in Apple, of disconcerting simplicity. The adjustment is made on a case -by -case basis, for each discussion wire. Impossible for the moment to apply a global theme to the entire application. Here is the procedure to follow:

1. Open the application Messages on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Enter the conversation you want to personalize.
3. Tap the name or photo of the contact at the top of the screen to display the options.
4. In the menu appearing, select the new option: “Background and style”.
5. You can then choose from a selection of Apple wallpapers, united colors, or “photos” touch to select an image from your own library.
6. Once the image is chosen, you can adjust it and preview the rendering with the discussion bubbles. Validate your choice.

The new background is applied instantly. Note that this setting is purely local: your contact will not see the wallpaper you have chosen.

Our advice for successful personalization

To make the most of this new feature, here are some recommendations from our first tests. It is by following a logic similar to that of the customization of the locked screen that you will get the best results:

• Think of the contrast: Choose images that do not harm the readability of the text. Wallpapers that are too “loaded” or with colors similar to those of bubbles (blue and gray) are to be avoided.
• Use the blur: IOS 26 offers an option to apply a slight blur to your background image. It is a great way to use a personal photo without sacrificing the clarity of the messages.
• Adapt to dark mode: If you use dark mode, favor dark wallpapers. The rendering will be more harmonious and restful for the eyes.

Apple finally listens to its most creative users

By introducing the personalization of the backgrounds in messages, Apple does not only make up for delay in competition. The Cupertino firm proves that it is now more attentive to the desires of its community. This apparently simple feature changes the daily experience of one of the most used applications on iPhone. It is one more step towards a more flexible and personal iOS ecosystem, a direction that can only be applauded.