How to Disable iMessage Apps from the App Bar

By Leanne Hays Updated 09/18/2024

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Lately, I've noticed that the app menu at the bottom of my messages is getting cluttered with icons that I never added. I was glad to learn that you can remove apps from the app bar, so I'm not forever scrolling back and forth, searching for my favorites. Let's get started learning how to add and remove apps from Messages on the iPhone.

Why You'll Love This Tip:

Declutter your app bar in Messages.
Quickly access your favorite apps in the app bar.

How to Remove an App from the iPhone Messages App Menu

System Requirements

This tip works on any iPhone running iOS 17 or later. Learn how to update to iOS 17.

Here are the steps to remove apps from the app bar in Messages. If you like learning about using your iPhone, be sure to sign up for our free Tip of the Day!

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On your iPhone, open Settings.
Tap Messages.

Tap iMessage Apps.
From here, you can toggle off apps you do not want to appear in the Message App bar.

To access the Message App Bar, open Messages.
Open any conversation.

Tap the plus button next to the text field.
Scroll or tap More to see app the apps in your Messages App bar.

That's it! Now, your app will be less cluttered, and you can find the apps you actually need more easily.

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Topics

Customization & Personalization

Author Details

Leanne Hays

Leanne Hays has over a dozen years of experience writing for online publications. As a Feature Writer for iPhone Life, she has authored hundreds of how-to, Apple news, and gear review articles, as well as a comprehensive Photos App guide. Leanne holds degrees in education and science and loves troubleshooting and repair. This combination makes her a perfect fit as manager of our Ask an Expert service, which helps iPhone Life Insiders with Apple hardware and software issues.
In off-work hours, Leanne is a mother of two, homesteader, audiobook fanatic, musician, and learning enthusiast.

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