Have you ever been bombarded with messages from unknown senders on your iPhone 14 and wondered why there isn’t a separate tab to keep them organized? Well, you’re not alone. Many iPhone users have asked the same question. Unfortunately, as of now, the iPhone 14 does not have a dedicated Unknown Senders tab in the Messages app. However, there are ways to filter and manage messages from people who are not in your contact list. Let’s dive into how you can accomplish this.
How to Filter Unknown Senders in Messages on iPhone 14
Before we get into the steps, it’s worth noting that filtering unknown senders won’t create a new tab, but it will separate messages from people who aren’t in your contacts, making them easier to manage.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone 14.
The Settings app is the one with the gear icon. You’ll find it on your home screen or in your App Library.
Step 2: Scroll Down and Tap on Messages
Scroll down until you find the Messages option and tap on it.
The Messages settings are where you can adjust preferences for text messages and iMessages.
Step 3: Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders
Under the Message Filtering section, toggle on the option for Filter Unknown Senders.
This will activate the filter that separates messages from unknown senders into a separate list within the Messages app.
After you complete these steps, texts from unknown senders will appear in a separate section called “Unknown Senders” within the Messages app, but they won’t trigger notifications. This way, you can check them at your convenience without being disturbed by constant alerts.
Tips for Managing Unknown Senders in Messages on iPhone 14
- Regularly review the Unknown Senders section to avoid missing important messages.
- Block spammers or unwanted contacts directly from the message thread to prevent further messages.
- Add frequently contacted unknown senders to your contacts to ensure their messages appear in your main inbox.
- Use the search function in Messages to quickly find conversations with unknown senders.
- Consider using third-party messaging apps that offer more robust filtering options if you receive a high volume of messages from unknown senders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t the iPhone 14 have an Unknown Senders tab?
Apple has not provided a specific reason for this design choice. It may be to keep the Messages interface simple or because they have not seen it as a highly requested feature.
Can I block unknown senders on my iPhone 14?
Yes, you can block unknown senders by tapping on their message thread, tapping on the contact icon at the top, and selecting “Block this Caller.”
Will I receive notifications for messages filtered into the Unknown Senders section?
No, messages from unknown senders that have been filtered will not trigger notifications.
Can I move a conversation from Unknown Senders to the main inbox?
Yes, simply add the person to your contacts, and their messages will appear in your main inbox.
Is there a way to automatically delete messages from unknown senders?
Currently, there is no automatic deletion feature for messages from unknown senders. You have to manually delete them.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on Messages.
- Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders.
Conclusion
While the lack of an Unknown Senders tab in Messages on the iPhone 14 may seem like an oversight, Apple does provide a filtering system to help manage these messages. It’s not a perfect solution, but it can help keep your inbox organized and your notifications relevant. If you’re receiving a high volume of messages from unknown senders, consider the tips mentioned earlier, and don’t forget to review the Unknown Senders section periodically to ensure you don’t miss any important messages. With a bit of manual management, you can keep your messaging experience streamlined and efficient. Who knows, maybe a future iOS update will introduce the Unknown Senders tab many of us have been hoping for.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.