Text messaging apps for mac mac#

In any conversation, the message text field, the field used to type messages, will include either the word “iMessage” or “text message” as part of its accessibility label to convey this information to VoiceOver users. When you send a message using the Messages app on any Apple platform, the type of message, either iMessage or SMS, will be determined automatically. If you don’t already have an Apple ID, you can create one for free. In contrast, to use iMessage, all you need is an Apple device signed into an Apple ID. Typically, the ability to send and receive SMS messages is facilitated by a wireless carrier and service plan. Short messaging service (SMS) is the universal text messaging standard supported on nearly all modern phones. In addition to not requiring a dedicated texting plan, iMessage includes a number of additional features, such as increased customizability of messages and end-to-end encryption. IMessage is an Apple service that allows you to exchange messages with other Apple users independent of a wireless carrier. Messages refers to the built-in app on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS used to send and receive both iMessages and standard SMS text messages, with this guide primarily focused on the version of the app for macOS.

Text messaging apps for mac mac#

In fact, being able to do tasks like calling and texting seamlessly on both my Mac and my iPhone is one of my favorite cross-device integration features. While certain aspects of the Messages app’s interface may initially seem confusing, there are a number of tricks, which I will cover in this guide, which you can use to maximize your efficiency with it. Rather than stop what you’re doing and switch devices to view and respond to the message, you could simply open the Notification Center or Messages app on your Mac, view and respond to the message, and get back to your original task. As part of Apple’s interconnected ecosystem, this capability is also available on macOS.Īn example of how the Messages app could be useful on macOS is if you’re working on your Mac and a text comes in. If the group has four or more members, you can remove members: Control-click the member's name, then choose Remove from Conversation.If you have an iPhone, you’re probably fairly familiar with the Messages app on iOS, using it to send and receive texts, photos, videos, and other files.

Add a group name, add members to a group, or leave a group.

Review all of the photos and files that were exchanged in the conversation.

See the recipient's location-if they're sharing their location with you.

Use FaceTime to start an audio call or video call.

Choose not to be disturbed by notifications about this conversation.

After starting a conversation, click Details in the corner of the window to take other actions, including:.

To include an audio recording, clickand record your message.

Or use Continuity Camera to capture a photo or scan directly from your iPhone or iPad camera.

To include an image or other file, just drag or paste it into the message field.

Type your message in the field at the bottom of the window, then press Return to send it.

To start a group conversation, just add more recipients. If they're in your Contacts app, Messages finds them as you type.

Address your message by typing the recipient's name, email address, or phone number.

Click at the top of the Messages window.

It's usually the same Apple ID that you use for iCloud, the iTunes Store, the App Store, and the account you created when you first set up your Mac. Sign in with same Apple ID that you use with Messages on your iPhone and other devices. IMessage is the Apple messaging service you get automatically with your Apple ID.If it's not already set up, you're asked to sign in when you first open the Messages app.