iMessage Open Graph Preview Tool

Preview how your links appear on iMessage. Test your Open Graph meta tags and optimize your iMessage link previews for maximum engagement.

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iMessage Open Graph Guide

How iMessage Uses Open Graph Tags

Apple's iMessage (Messages app) uses standard Open Graph tags to create rich link previews when users share URLs in conversations. As an iOS-native app, iMessage displays previews optimized for Apple devices.

Where iMessage Shows Open Graph Previews

  • Individual Chats - Link previews in 1-on-1 conversations
  • Group Chats - Preview cards in group iMessages
  • SMS/MMS - Limited preview support for non-iMessage

iMessage Image Dimensions & Requirements

  • Optimal size: 1200×630px (displayed in 16:9 card)
  • Minimum size: 200×200px
  • Recommended file size: Under 1MB for mobile
  • Supported formats: JPG, PNG, GIF

Required iMessage Open Graph Tags

<!-- Essential Open Graph Tags for iMessage -->
<meta property="og:title" content="Your Page Title" />
<meta property="og:description" content="Your page description" />
<meta property="og:image" content="https://example.com/image.jpg" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://example.com/page" />
<meta property="og:type" content="website" />

iOS-Specific Requirements

  • HTTPS Required: iOS requires HTTPS for link previews
  • Server-Side Rendering: Meta tags must be in initial HTML response
  • Fast Response: Ensure quick server response times
  • Mobile-Optimized: Images should load quickly on mobile networks

iMessage Caching Behavior

  • iMessage caches are tied to iOS system caching
  • No direct way to clear cache
  • Restarting the Messages app may help
  • Add query parameters to URLs as workaround

iOS Optimization Tips

  • Use mobile-optimized images under 1MB
  • Ensure HTTPS for all URLs (required by iOS)
  • Keep titles under 60 characters
  • Write descriptions visible on small iPhone screens
  • Test on actual iOS devices for accurate previews
  • Verify preview appears in both light and dark mode

iMessage Open Graph FAQ

What image size should I use for iMessage link previews?

iMessage works well with standard OG image size of 1200×630px (1.91:1 aspect ratio). Apple's Messages app displays previews in a 16:9 ratio card. Ensure images are under 1MB for fast loading on mobile.

How does iMessage handle Open Graph tags?

iMessage (Apple Messages) uses standard Open Graph tags for link previews. It reads og:title, og:description, og:image, and og:url. Previews appear as rich cards when links are shared in conversations.

Why is my iMessage link preview not showing?

Common issues: 1) Meta tags are rendered client-side only (use SSR), 2) Image URLs are relative, 3) Server uses HTTP instead of HTTPS, 4) Apple's cache hasn't updated. iOS requires HTTPS for link previews.

How do I clear iMessage link preview cache?

iMessage caches are tied to iOS system caching. There's no direct way to clear. Workarounds include: waiting for cache to expire, adding query parameters to URLs, or restarting the Messages app on your device.

Does iMessage support all Open Graph tags?

iMessage supports core OG tags: title, description, image, and URL. It may not display all optional tags like author or published_time in the preview card. Focus on optimizing the essential four tags.

How do I optimize link previews for iOS devices?

Use mobile-optimized images, ensure HTTPS for all URLs, keep titles under 60 characters, write compelling descriptions visible on small screens, and test on actual iOS devices for accurate previews.

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