iOS 10: Taking & Attaching Photos to Messages

Changes to Photo Attachment in iOS 10 iMessage

With the release of iOS 10, Apple implemented modifications to the process of capturing and attaching photos within the iMessage application.

While seemingly minor, these alterations may initially present a slight learning curve for users.

Begin by launching the Messages app and opening an existing conversation, or initiating a new one.

Tap the camera icon located in the bottom-left corner of the screen.

A compact camera view and thumbnails of your photo library will then appear.

From this interface, you can either capture a new photo for inclusion in your message, or select an existing image from your library.

However, the camera view cannot be expanded to full screen, and navigating through numerous thumbnails to locate older photos can be time-consuming.

A more efficient method is available.

Observe the gray bar positioned along the left edge of the screen.

This bar can be tapped, but it’s often simpler to drag it towards the right.

This action will reveal dedicated buttons for both the Camera and Photo Library.

You can now access the camera in full-screen mode, or browse your photo library with greater ease.

Once a photo is captured or selected, it will be displayed within your iMessage composition.

Ideally, Apple would allow direct access to the camera by simply tapping its thumbnail.

Nevertheless, this method ensures users are no longer puzzled by the new photo attachment process.