Copying just part of a message in the Messages app has always been a hassle—until now. iOS 26 introduces a new “Select” tool that finally lets users highlight specific portions of a text without grabbing the entire bubble. It’s a small tweak with big usability perks for everyday messaging.
How the New “Select” Option Works
Instead of copying an entire message and editing it elsewhere, iOS 26 now gives you precision control over what you copy.
- Tap and hold any message bubble
- Choose the new Select option
- Drag the handles to highlight exactly the text you want
- Tap Copy and paste it wherever needed
This works with all message types, including SMS and iMessage content.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Until now, selecting text inside the Messages app has been oddly limited. If someone sends a long block of info—like:
- Restaurant details
- Phone numbers
- Directions or links
—you’d have to copy the whole message and trim it manually. Now, you can lift just what you need with a few taps.
Real-World Use Cases
Here’s when the new tool comes in handy:
- Copying just an address from a shared itinerary
- Saving a single quote from a long message
- Grabbing a name or link without the surrounding context
It’s also helpful when you’re multitasking—like pasting a phone number into your dialer or address into Maps—without switching back and forth unnecessarily.
What Else Is New in iOS 26 Messages
Alongside Select, iOS 26 brings more updates to supercharge the Messages app:
- Polls: Create quick group votes directly in chats
- Live Translation: Real-time message translation using Apple Intelligence
- Group Typing Indicators: See who’s replying in multi-person threads
- Smarter Filters: Better message organization by contact and category
- Natural Language Search: Search conversations like you’d ask a question
Try It Yourself Soon
The new Select feature is included in the latest iOS 26 beta, with a full rollout expected later. It’s a subtle change, but one that will save time and frustration for users who rely on Messages for daily communication.