iOS 26 Changes to SMS Filtering
NOVEMBER 2025 | Apple’s update may hide legitimate bank messages — here’s how to stay visible.
Apple’s iOS 26 recent update introduced new message filtering rules that aim to protect users from spam — but they may also affect how mutual banks’ SMS comms are delivered and seen by customers.
The update went live in September 2025, and one of the most significant changes is a new “Unknown Senders” inbox. For banks, this means even legitimate service messages — from transaction alerts to authentication codes — may land quietly in a place customers rarely check.
What changed
With iOS 26, messages from numbers not stored in a customer’s contacts or with low historic engagement can automatically be routed to the Unknown Senders inbox. Once redirected, these messages:
don’t trigger sounds or vibrations
don’t appear on the lock screen
are easier for customers to overlook, even when expected
This can affect a range of important bank communications including one-time passwords, fraud alerts, reminders and product updates.
To Note: Because defaults vary — and customers can enable or disable this filtering feature — not all iOS 26 users will experience this behaviour.
However, enough customers will be affected that it’s worth preparing now and adapting your SMS strategy to minimise any visibility issues.
How Mutual Banks Can Stay Visible
A few proactive steps can help ensure your messages continue to land where customers will see them:
Encourage customers to save your SMS number during onboarding or via your first welcome message
Prompt light early interaction, such as “Reply YES to confirm”, to help classify your number as known
Remind customers to save your contact details within key journeys or service comms
Monitor SMS performance post-update to identify any filtering patterns early
Spark can support your team in reviewing your SMS setup, optimising journeys, and adapting to the iOS 26 changes — ensuring your customer comms remain visible, compliant and effective.
Reach out to the team at Spark — let’s talk about how we can help you stay visible and keep your customer comms performing at their best.