What Is Invisible Ink on iPhone

When Apple announced the release of iOS 10, one of the most anticipated features was the Invisible Ink. The feature mentioned above is only available on iMessage for iPhone 7 and above users.

This article outlines essential details about the Invisible Ink feature, how it works, and answers commonly asked questions.

How Does the Invisible Ink Feature Work?

One of the main reasons Apple decided to incorporate the Invisible Ink feature was privacy. It is difficult for onlookers to snoop on the text you have sent the recipient, especially when they are in transit or in a crowd. 

So instead of waiting for the recipient to get to a secure location before you send over private texts, you can send the text via the Invisible Ink feature. In that case, the recipient will know that the texts’ contents are private and will be wary of onlookers.

It’s imperative to note that the Invisible Ink feature does not work like Snapchat, whereby the text disappears after being viewed once. Also, keep in mind that the recipient can screenshot the text or save the image by just long pressing on it. 

How To Use the Invisible Ink Feature

If your iPhone is capable of running on iOS 10 or later, yet you can’t seem to find the Invisible Ink feature, follow the steps below.

1. Go to “Settings” and type “Messages” on the search bar.
2. Click on “Messages”.
3. Scroll down and click on “iMessage”.
4. Enable iMessage by swiping the button-like icon on the right side of the said word.
5. Go back to the home screen and click on the “Messaging” app.
6. After locating the profile of whoever you want to text, type your message as normal.
7. Long press the “Send” button until options appear.
8. Click on “Send with Invisible Ink”.

Why Doesn’t My iPhone Have the Invisible Ink Feature?

If you have an iPhone 7 or any later model that runs on iOS 10 or later, you do not have the Invisible Ink feature. Chances are, you have your reduced motion settings turned on. In this case, follow the steps below:

1. On your home screen, click on “Settings”.
2. Scroll down and click on “Accessibility”.
3. Click on “Motion”.
4. Switch off the reduced motion by sliding the button-like feature at the end of the motion icon.

If you still don’t have the feature despite following the steps above, ensure that you have a stable internet connection, then follow the steps below:

1. Click on “Settings”.
2. Key in “Messages” on the search bar and click on “iMessage”.
3. Switch it off and then back on.
4. Go back to the “Messaging” app and check whether the feature is available.

Pros and Cons of Invisible Ink

The Invisible Ink has a few pros and cons.  

Pros

• It comes already installed in all the latest iPhones.
• It is easily accessible.
• Promotes privacy.
• It is free.
• Allows you to send word texts, images, videos, and Gifs.

Cons

• It only works for iPhone users.
• After a few seconds, the message keeps fading, forcing the recipient to run their finger through the text.
• The recipient can screenshot or download the text.
• This feature only works when you have an internet connection.

Conclusion

The Invisible Ink feature is helpful if you want to send a private text to someone in a crowded area. It comes embedded in all iPhones that run on iOS 10, meaning you will not need to download any additional software.

Frequently Asked Questions