So, how do you save a picture from a text message on the iPhone? Saving photos from the Messages app used to be fairly tedious. Now you can download and save photos with the tap of a single button! We'll show you the quickest way to save photos from text messages, plus review where items are saved once downloaded.

Why You'll Love This Tip

Faster, easier photo downloads that save directly to your Photos app library.
Saved photos will also sync to iCloud as long as iCloud Photo Library is set up.

How to Save Photos from Messages on iPhone

System Requirements

This tip was performed on an iPhone 15 Pro running iOS 18.3.2. Find out how to update to the latest version of iOS.

Whenever someone sends you a picture over text message, you might want to download it. Luckily, it's very quick and easy. Here's how to save pictures from text messages on the iPhone:

Open the Messages app and navigate to the conversation that contains the photo or photos you want to save.
There will be a tiny download icon next to the image(s). Tap the download icon.
The first time you do this, you may see a notification about iCloud. If this occurs, confirm as prompted. The download icon will briefly turn blue, and then it will change into a check mark for a moment and disappear.

That's how to save pictures from a text message on the iPhone. It really is the fastest way to save photos on iPhone from text messages. Now, check your Photos app Library to find the downloaded pictures. But does iMessage notify when you save a photo? It does not, so feel free to save any photos that get sent your way! Next, find out how to pin contacts on the iPhone.