Apple’s new message filtering feature in iOS 26 is causing a stir among political groups. The update automatically sorts texts from unknown senders into a separate category. This change frustrates politicians who depend on unsolicited texts to solicit donations from iPhone users.
Until now, iPhones have filtered messages using carrier spam lists and third-party apps. However, iOS 26 takes it further by sorting unknown texts into specific categories. Consequently, many political messages may no longer reach users’ main inboxes, leading to potential missed donations.
A letter from the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) revealed concern about this change. The NRSC warns the update might cost them up to $500 million in donations. They argue that iOS 26 treats unknown numbers as spam, but this is a misunderstanding. Apple categorizes these messages as “unknown,” not “spam.” Still, the effect remains the same: users often don’t get notified of these texts.
Apple’s system prevents notifications and badges for unknown senders by default. Therefore, users might overlook these political texts entirely. While there are settings to change this, many users won’t adjust them. The NRSC’s complaint is valid in that fundraising could suffer. Yet, it overlooks the importance of user control and privacy.
Political campaigns legally send unsolicited messages, but many find this annoying or invasive. Apple’s filtering restores some sanity to users’ messaging experience. The update creates multiple categories like Transactions, Promotions, and Spam, giving users fine control. Despite this, users cannot reclassify messages manually. For example, promotional texts sometimes still show as unknown.
Users can visit Settings to manage notifications from unknown senders. They can toggle notifications for Time Sensitive, Personal, Transactions, and Promotions categories. If campaigns educate supporters to adjust these settings, their messages could still be seen.
Ultimately, political groups may need to rethink their strategies. Relying on unsolicited texts seems outdated in 2025. Encouraging people to opt in or sign up for newsletters might prove more effective. Apple’s message filtering offers important benefits, balancing user privacy with the challenge of unwanted messages.
In summary, message filtering in iOS 26 is disrupting political fundraising but also improving user experience. Campaigns should adapt rather than blame the new system. After all, respecting user choice is vital in today’s tech environment.
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