Is there any way to remove the plus button in messages iOS 17?

The plus list is divided into 2 sections; the first page and "more". On the More page you cannot move the Apple Store. You can press and hold to move items on the first page to More or just rearrange them on the first page. You can get rid of unwanted items by going into Settings/Messages/iMessage Apps and unchecking the apps that are checked. Also move items from your home page to another page.

I have Apple Cash and Store on the More page, the rest fit on the first page and like I said, long press on + and you don't have to leave the text message to include a photo

You can press and hold the + button and it will take you straight to photos

I figured it out after some searching.

When you’re in iMessage, press the + icon to see the list. From there, press and hold the app and it will minimize slightly. From there, you can rearrange the list to your liking

Send your feedback to Apple, as they may or may nor see it posted here.

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You can just touch the top right or even right side of the screen and it will take you back to the message.

You can remove items from the list by going to settings/messages/iMessage Apps and turning them off

You can remove items from the list by moving them off of your home screen

You can move items from the first page to the second or second to first (except Store) with a long press, like moving the apps on your home screen

You can long press + to go directly to photos

I agree on Apple's design. I came from Android after much nagging by my kids. After 2 months with this iPhone 12 I've decided to go back to Samsung Galaxy, probably the S23 or S24.

You can press and hold the + button and it will open photos. Something, anyway

Just long-press on the “+” icon, and the Photos interface will automatically appear." And long press on the app and drag and drop

Open text. Tap the plus button. When the options come up, such as Apple Cash, hold down on Apple Cash and it gives you the ability to move it to the bottom of the list or wherever you want it.

I just discovered that you can long press and then drag the items into whatever order you want

Is there at least a way to customize the "+" options and top options? I found in >Setttings >Messages >iMessage apps how to toggle off some unwanted apps, but other options still remain on the +, like Apple Cash, Audio, Apple store, which I never use in messaging. I'd like to move up some that are under the "more" tab. (And agreed, this is useless and adding extra steps)

I just started using iPhone for work, just starting to get used to it and enjoy it and then this happened. I actually liked that there was a quick access bar in the text area.. now it's more like android, but the extra step to get to GIF's is stupid IMO....

sincerely new user

I hate the way there is no quick tab for texting and the new plus sign, there instead on iPhones anymore. This new figuration is that of an android. If I wanted an android I would have bought one and now, I’m considering making the switch, after being a loyal iPhone consumer for over 15 years.

Major step backwards. All of that should be available above the keyboard like it used to be. Makes me want to use the app less. Hate it.

How about gifs? Camera? Voice memo?

all have an annoying extra step now.

I agree 100% on the negative impact of this change to iMessage. Why add extra steps to an already effective and efficient method. Apple, please return this feature back to iOS 16 standard. Thanks