How to use and how to customize iMessage apps in iOS 17?

Apple released the first beta of iOS 17 for developers. According to the announcements, the new operating system update will bring a lot of new features and improvements. One of these features is the redesigned iMessage in iOS 17. The iMessage app comes with a new expandable menu for apps on iOS 17. Here are the details about how to use and how to customize iMessage apps in iOS 17…

How to find iMessage apps in iOS 17

Apple’s latest update brings a cleaner and simpler UI to make it more accessible for users. The company explains, “An expandable menu that can be accessed with a simple tap to display iMessage apps gives Messages a sleeker look.” Additionally, the new update comes with Messages stickers, improved search filters, the Check In feature, and more iMessage improvements.

You can use the message app by following these steps:

Open the Messages app on your iPhone running iOS 17.
Instead of apps appearing above the keyboard, locate and tap the “+” icon positioned to the left of the text field.
The main 6 native apps will be displayed first.
To access additional iMessage apps, swipe up or tap the “More” button.
Note that leaving voice messages in the Messages app is now found under the “Audio” option in the app menu.

How to customize iMessage apps

Press, hold, and drag iMessage apps to reorder them. Move apps from the lower section to the top section to prioritize your most used apps.
To add apps, tap the “More” button, and then choose “Store” to add new iMessage apps.
- Please note that, currently, the Store cannot be moved from the bottom section to the top section.
In the first beta version, there doesn’t appear to be a way to delete Messages apps, but that functionality will likely be added in the future.

How to install iOS 17 beta?

The first beta is available for developers now, but Apple announced that it will be released to the public in July. You can install the developer beta, but you should think twice before installing it because it may cause problems on your device and is not stable yet.

A paid Apple Developer account is no longer required. However, if the following steps don’t grant you access to the developer beta, you may need to sign in with your Apple ID at developer.apple.com.
It is important to create a fresh backup of your iPhone or iPad, especially if you want or need to downgrade to iOS 16 later on. Apple recommends performing a backup on your Mac or PC.
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad that is running at least iOS 16.4.
Tap on “General” and then select “Software Update“.
Look for the new “Beta Updates” button. It may take a moment for it to appear on the screen.
Choose “Developer Beta” from the available options.
If you need to change the Apple ID associated with the beta, you can tap on that option located at the bottom.
Select “Back” when you are done making any necessary changes.
Look for the iOS 17 Developer Beta to appear, and then choose “Download and Install”.