Tech Desk 
Apr 12, 2025
Apple released iOS 18.4 last week with several new features, and one of them is an enormously helpful Messages improvement that many iPhone users might not have noticed yet. The updated version now enables iPhone users to instantly open favourite chats using just a shortcut, allowing messaging to never be faster than this.
With the update, iPhone users can now also make a Messages shortcut with the Shortcuts app. That would allow you to directly jump into a certain conversation without launching the Messages app and scrolling through your conversations.
iOS 18.4 new 'Open Conversation' feature
The new "Open Conversation" action in Shortcuts lets you select a conversation thread and turn it into a shortcut. Then, you can stick this shortcut in various spots around your phone.
Whether you use the Home Screen, Control Centre, or Lock Screen, you'll be able to easily get to the people you text the most.
Setting it up is easy:
- Open the Shortcuts app.
- Tap the '+' to create a new shortcut.
- Search for ‘Open Conversation’ and add it.
- Select the person or group chat you want to link.
- You can even turn each shortcut into an app icon with a photo, making it feel personal and fun.
This Messages shortcut feature not only saves time but also works well with other iOS customisation tools. Whether you're using widgets, the Action button, or replacing your lock screen flashlight, iOS 18.4 gives you full control over where your favorite chats live.
