Hi Hillbilly34,
welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) Community!
re: Messages freezing up ..... after one of the updates
If your iPhone is not working as expected, you may want to Restart your iPhone - Apple Support
(deletes temporary files, may update recent changes, and may restore order)
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If the issue continues:
You might want to check whether your iPhone has enough memory / storage space free for your activities.
Eg: An iPhone generally needs about 8Gb free in which to operate smoothly, and continue to do what you ask it to.
To check Storage: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
If storage is mostly all used, it a wise idea to back up your iPhone data, either to a computer on external drive.
Then, to free up space, you can scroll to: "Manage space on your iPhone" in the article below:
If you need more space for an update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support
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Else: If you already have plenty of storage space free:
See what to do:
If an app on your iPhone or iPad stops responding, closes unexpectedly, or won’t open - Apple Support
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If you still need help: Try turning off any (unnecessary!!) ad-blockers, virus checkers, or the like ... even VPN can cause issues.
Check if any necessary third-party (non-Apple) apps may need updating.
Eg: older software may need removing, or a newer version downloaded, for compatibility with your iPhone's iOS.
All the best :-)
