When you receive a text message, you sometimes see special effects, like balloons floating or fireworks exploding across your screen. These special effects can be triggered by using specific words or phrases, such as "Congratulations," "Happy Birthday ...

Apple made chats better with green bubble friends. They still stink. Starting Monday with the release of iOS 18, Apple is overhauling the iPhone messaging app to make your chats better in mixed company — when at least one Android phone user is involved.

A survey from All About Cookies has found that some iPhone users are inclined to think less of those who don’t also have an iPhone when texting. Their text messages will appear in green bubbles instead of blue, and about a quarter of iPhone users ...