iPhone users have one significant advantage over Android enthusiasts because of the iMessage app. The app is both an internet-based texting app and an SMS service.
If you’re using Wi-Fi or mobile data, you can use iMessage to text with other iPhone users. As a bonus, you can also use iMessage effects to make texting even more fun and interactive.
In this article, we’ll talk about what kind of effects are available on iMessage and how you can make use of them. We’ll also answer several relevant questions about the iMessage app and troubleshoot a few potential issues.
How to Send Effects With iMessage?
When you’re texting someone for a while, things can get a bit monotonous. If you’re using the iMessage app, one of the best ways to jump-start a conversation is to add an effect.
The iOS native texting app has several options for fun effects which you can use effectively when you see fit. Here’s what you can do with each of them:
Handwritten Message
Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could send handwritten letters – instantly? Until that kind of technology comes through, we can only rely on what we have. What we do have are handwritten messages in iMessage.
Do you want to wish a happy birthday to your friend or happy Mother’s day to your mom but make it more personal? Here’s how you can use the handwritten effect on iMessage:
- Open the iMessage app and tap on the “Compose” button.
- iPhone users should turn their devices sideways, but iPad users don’t have to.
- Tap on the “handwriting” button on the keyboard.
- With your finger, write the message on the screen. If you need to redo it, tap “Undo” or “Clear” at the top-left corner of the screen.
- Once you’re done, simply tap on “Done” in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Finally, press the “Send” button.
Full-Screen Effects
If you want to customize your iMessage, but handwriting notes won’t do, there are two other options. First, you can use the full-screen effect. What does that mean?
Essentially, you add a unique screen effect to accompany your message. For example, your contact can receive a message with balloons or confetti. Here’s how that works on iMessage:
- Launch the iMessage app and start a new message. You can also go to an existing conversation.
- Enter your message and then press and hold the “Send” button.
- Tap on the “Screen” tab from the menu you see on the screen.
- Swipe to select the screen effect you want.
- Tap on the “Send” button.
The chosen effect will show up in your conversation immediately.
Bubble Effects
The second option in terms of animated effects in the iMessage app is the bubble effects. As the name implies, it will change the appearance of your message bubble. Here’s how you can make that happen:
- Open the iMessage app, start a new message or enter an existing conversation.
- You can write a message, insert a photo, or add an emoji. Then press and hold the “Send” button.
- You’ll see the list of four bubble effects to choose from. Tap on the gray dot next to each to preview it. Your options are slam, loud, gentle, and invisible ink.
- Once you select the bubble effect, tap on the “Send” button again.
Auto-Play Message Effects
Here’s the thing; unless you disable this feature specifically, these iMessage effects will auto-play on your iOS device. They won’t in case the auto-play has been previously disabled.
Whether you want to enable or disable the auto-play for the iMessage effects, you need to go to your device’s settings. Here are the steps to follow:
- Launch the “Settings” app on your iOS device.
- Tap on the “Accessibility” option.
- Then, select “Motion.”
- Under this section, toggle the ON/OFF switch next to the “Auto-Play Message Effects” option.
Words That Trigger Automatic Message Effects
For specific occasions, you don’t even have to go through all that trouble described above to get the iMessage screen or bubble effect.
The app will deliver pre-selected effects based on specific trigger words. Therefore, when you wish a “Happy Birthday” to someone, the balloon effect automatically follows.
If you say “Congratulations” or “Congrats,” the confetti effect showers the user’s screen. Fireworks effect lights up the screen when you write “Happy New Year,” as well as “Happy Chinese New Year.”
You can have a little bit more fun if you write “Pew Pew” for the laser’s effect pop up. This can be especially useful if you deliver a particularly effective joke or a punchline.
Additional FAQs
1. Message Effects Don’t Work in iMessage?
All these iMessage effects sound fun, but what are you to do if they’re not working on your phone? The first thing to check is whether the person you’re messaging is using an iOS or Android device.
If they’re using an Android device, you’re not using the web-based iMessage features but merely sending an SMS. The clue should be that your message bubble is green instead of blue.
However, if the message bubble is blue and you still can’t access iMessage effects, then you have a different problem. Likely, the reduce motion feature is on.
The auto-play message effect could also be disabled. It could be that both features have been disabled. It’s an easy fix, though. Simply go to Settings>Accessibility>Motion and enable both features.
2. How Do You Cancel the iMessage Screen Effect?
If you’re in the process of sending an iMessage effect, but you’ve changed your mind, no worries. All you have to do is tap on the “Cancel” button at the very bottom of the effect list.
3. Will the iMessage Effect Appear on Mac Computer?
Until recently, the iMessage effects did not apply to macOS. However, starting from the Big Sur 2020 release, that has changed.
If you have a macOS device that runs on this particular operating system, you can enjoy the iMessage screen effects.
4. Can You Replay the Screen Effect on iMessage?
Yes, you can. Once the effect’s animation ends, you can tap on the “Replay” button to see it again. You will be able to see the “Replay” button even if you have the “Reduce Motion” feature on. You can choose whether to see the effect or not.
Having Fun With iMessage Effects
Most smartphone users are pretty savvy when it comes to making text messaging more versatile and fun. We all send short audio and video messages, as well as fun memes and photos.
But bubble and screen effects such as these found in the iMessage app are an effective way to add a little flavor to your daily texting routine. So are handwritten messages.
However, if you’re not in the mood for such effects, you can permanently disable them in the Accessibility feature on iOS. Also, Big Sur 2020 users have the benefit of enjoying these features on their computers as well.
Do you use iMessage effects when texting? Let us know in the comments section below.
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