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If you've been paying attention, then you know Apple made Messages one of the stars of iOS 10.

The update supercharged the operating system's messaging features with the ability to add a whole boatload of new animations and other fun effects to your messages. But not all of the new features are easy to find.

SEE ALSO:12 hidden features in iOS 10

The ability to send messages with the new "invisible ink" feature, along with some of the other new effects, is not immediately obvious when you open the new Messages app.

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To send a message with invisible ink (or other animations, like adding balloons or confetti) you first need to type your message as you normally would. Then, use 3D Touch (or just hold down if you have an older iPhone) on the send button to bring up the menu for changing the look of your text.

Select "invisible ink" from the menu. This will allow you to preview how your message looks before you finally send it. Check out the GIF below to see it in action.

Of course, it's important to keep in mind that these features will only work with iMessage, not if you're texting a friend who uses Android or another type of device. Additionally, the message may not render for the recipient if they haven't yet updated their device to iOS 10.

Also, unlike Snapchat, these messages don't actually disappear. Anyone who taps on the message can reveal its contents, so it's probably best to avoid sending messages you actually want to keep secret. But even so, it's a fun (if slightly gimmicky) way to exchange messages with friends.

TopicsApple