iOS 17 introduces new features to the Messages app, including iMessage Check In, a personal favorite of mine. During late or early travels, my mom checks in to ensure my safe arrival. Occasionally, I forget to update her, missing calls and causing worry. This is where iPhone’s iMessage Check In proves invaluable.
The Check In feature in iMessage on iPhone can automatically notify your family or friends upon your safe arrival, cutting down all stress. Whether you’re returning home late at night or leaving early in the morning, it offers a convenient way to share your status. Here’s how to use it:
- Ensure both you and your intended recipient have updated iPhones to iOS 17.
- Enable Location Services by navigating to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Location Services and toggling it ON.
- Confirm an active data plan.
Using Check In in Messages App on iPhone
Note: Your security and privacy remain intact, as all data shared via the Check In feature is end-to-end encrypted.
1. Open the Messages app and select the desired conversation.
2. Tap the “+” icon at the bottom-left.
3. Then, tap More and select Check In.
4. The first time you use the iMessage Check In feature, you’ll encounter an onboarding screen. Press Continue.
5. Choose the data you wish to share when you don’t arrive as expected. The Limited option shares your current location, battery details, and network signal strength. The Full option includes all Limited data, plus your traveled route and where you unlocked your iPhone or removed your Apple Watch.
6. Tap Continue after selecting your data-sharing option.
7. Next, tap “Send a Check In” in the Messages app on iPhone.
8. The message box displays the Check In card.
9. Check In automatically shares your home location. Tap Edit to adjust your arrival time or destination. This brings up the Check In details page.
10. Under the “Arrival” tab, adjust destination and estimated travel time based on transport mode (walking, driving, or transit). Update arrival time in iMessage Check In if plans change.
11. Tap the Blue arrow icon to share Check In.
12. Upon reaching the destination on estimated time, iMessage Check In card automatically notifies contacts of your safe arrival.
13. If there’s a delay or issue, iMessage Check In detects lack of progress, prompting to End Check In or Add Time. Emergency alarm option available.
14. If you don’t respond within 15 minutes, your contact will receive a notification that you’re delayed. They can tap to view the Limited or Full data (depending on the amount of data you’ve chosen to share) and take necessary measures.
Does my iPhone support iMessage Check In?
iPhone XR and newer models compatible with iOS 17 will support the Check In feature in iMessage.
Does iMessage Check In share your location in real time?
No, the iMessage Check In feature won’t share your location in real time. It will only notify your users when you reach the destination or share your current location if something goes wrong.
What information can I share with iMessage Check In?
Choose to share Limited or Full information with the Check In feature in iMessage. The Limited option shares your current location, battery level, and network signal strength. The Full option shares additional details, including the route traveled, and the location of the last iPhone unlock or Apple Watch removal. This information will be shared with your chosen contact if you don’t make it to your destination within the expected time or End the Check In.
Can I send an iMessage Check In to a friend using iOS 16?
No, both the sender and the recipient must be on iOS 17 to use the Apple Check In feature in iMessage.
How will my friend know I’ve reached my destination safely?
Apple Check In calculates your arrival time based on your current and destination location. Upon reaching your destination within the estimated time, your iPhone will automatically notify selected contacts of your safe arrival. If there’s no response, Check In will alert them.
Does iOS 17 Check In support SMS?
Apple Check In functions exclusively with iMessage, not SMS messages.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
