How can I remove myself from a group message in iOS?

Many enhancements to the Messages app are coming with the launch of iOS 8 this fall. Included in the new features are several options to control the behavior of group message threads.

Group messages and texts can be useful, however there are times when a thread has diverged from its original topic or the iOS user is busy doing something else. So how can you stop receiving messages from that particular thread?

There are two ways to opt out of the group message thread in the iOS 8 Messages app. Temporarily silencing notifications for the thread is possible by following these steps:

1. Open the group message thread
2. Tap the Details button in the upper right
3. Toggle Do Not Disturb -> ON (green slider)

To remove your contact information permanently from this group message thread:

1. Open the group message thread
2. Tap the Details button in the upper right
3. Scroll down and tap Leave this Conversation