How to mark all conversations as read in the Messages app on iPhone and iPad

Sometimes we just get way too many text messages. That little badge icon shows a bright red indicator of just how many unread conversations you have in the Messages app on your iPhone and iPad.

Sure, you can go through your list of messages and tap each one, so it appears you’ve read it. But there’s an easier way. Here’s how to mark all conversations as Read in the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.

mark all messages as read on iphone

Mark all messages as read

  1. Pop open the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. On the main screen of the app, which lists all of your conversations, tap the More button in the top right.
  3. Pick Select Messages.
  4. Tap Read All in the bottom left corner.
Instantly mark all messages as read on iPhone

Boom. Done. The badge icon is gone, the blue indicators next to unread messages are gone, and you are ready for another slew of conversations to begin.

You can also mark individual conversations as read too. Mark the circle next to the message and tap Read on the bottom left. Note that the Read option will only be clickable if that message is unread.

It doesn’t get much easier than this when it comes to marking messages as read. Whether it’s verification codes for apps, appointment confirmations, promotional texts, or similar messages that aren’t from those important people in your life, this is a handy trick.

Besides the above tip, you can also use the two-finger swipe to quickly select several messages, as shown in this Instagram video, and mark them as read (or unread).

Are there any tips you’d like to learn more about for the Messages app or just iOS in general? If so, let us know in the comments below!

Tips for the Messages app: