iOS 27 Lets iMessage Users Hide or Replace Audio Button After Bieber Complaint

Tapping the audio button in iMessage starts a voice recording session. During that session, the iPhone stops playing music so it can record the message it assumes the user wants to send. The problem drew attention after Justin Bieber complained in an Instagram post about how often the accidental tap happened to him. He wrote that the send button should not have multiple functions in the same spot and joked that he would put everyone at Apple in a choke hold until it was fixed. Engadget reported that his post received thousands of likes, reposts and reactions. Apple's reason for the change is not known; the company has not said whether Bieber's post prompted it.

In iOS 27, the options appear under Settings > Apps > Messages > Show in Text Field. Users can select Record Audio, Start Dictation, or None. Record Audio keeps the waveform-like icon for people who send voice messages regularly. Start Dictation is for users who prefer speaking into the phone instead of typing. None removes the control for people who rarely dictate or record audio. Engadget reported that if the choice does not show up in the text entry field immediately, force-quitting iMessage and reopening it should make the change appear.

Removing the button does not remove the functions. To record a voice message, tap the plus button to the left of the text entry box and choose Audio from the list. To dictate, tap the microphone icon under the keyboard on the lower right; Engadget reported that this should be on by default, but if it is missing, users can re-enable it in Settings > General > Keyboard > Enable Dictation.

iOS 27 also includes other Messages changes, according to Engadget. A new Drawing app lets users send sketches and handwritten notes and provides markup tools inside iMessage. Apple added an AI tool that suggests useful words and phrases and can automate tasks in a conversation, such as adding items to Reminders or Notes. Users can now use one number across two separate iPhones, and the messaging app has improved RCS support, including the ability to edit and unsend messages. Engadget said the Drawing app may have been introduced in preparation for the larger display expected on the iPhone Duo.

Editor's Summary Apple's iOS 27 gives iMessage users control over the audio button in the text field, offering record audio, dictation, or no button at all. The setting responds to complaints about accidental voice recordings, including a viral post from Justin Bieber. The functions remain available through the plus menu and the keyboard microphone, while iOS 27 adds drawing, AI assistance, dual-iPhone number use and improved RCS features.