How to Filter Messages Using iOS 16 Focus Filters

With iOS 16, Apple introduced Focus Filters, allowing you to customize how apps behave when a specific Focus mode is turned on. This feature enables the Messages app to hide distracting conversations and display only threads from people you have permitted for that specific Focus mode, such as Work or Personal. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step walkthrough for configuring Focus Filters in the Messages app to minimize distractions and keep your inbox organized.

Step 1: Configure Allowed Notifications

Before applying a filter to your conversation list, define which contacts are permitted during your Focus mode:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Focus.
  3. Select an existing Focus (such as Work or Personal) or tap the + icon in the top-right corner to create a new one.
  4. Tap People under the "Silence Notifications" section.
  5. Choose Allow Notifications From and tap Add People to select the contacts whose messages you want to receive and view during this Focus session.

Step 2: Add the Messages Focus Filter

Once your allowed contacts are designated, add the filter that changes the Messages app view:

  1. Return to the main screen of your selected Focus mode.
  2. Scroll down to the Focus Filters section at the bottom.
  3. Tap Add Filter.
  4. Under the App Filters category, tap Messages.
  5. Turn on the toggle switch for Filter by People List.
  6. Tap Add in the top-right corner to save the setting.

How It Works in Messages

When the configured Focus mode activates, open the Messages app to see the changes:

  • The conversation list automatically updates to show only chats involving the individuals included in your allowed list.
  • A banner appears at the top of the Messages screen indicating that your messages are filtered by your active Focus.
  • If you need to view all conversations temporarily without disabling your Focus mode, tap Turn Off on the filter banner at the top of the Messages list. Tap Filter again at any time to re-enable the filtered view.