Like most Google apps, Google Messages is testing a lot of features through A/B testing. However, the RCS/SMS client takes a while to roll out these features in a stable release, even after they're announced. From various reports, both from Google itself and from the devices we've tested, this is the current state of Messages.
See also: Google Messages – Wear OS: Vulnerability allows apps to send SMS
These are the Google Messages features that the company has announced or have been spotted by beta users:
@mentions in RCS group chats: This feature lets you get someone's attention in group chats even if their notifications are muted.
Remix with Nano Banana: When you long-press on an image in your chat or select/drag a new one to send, there will be a “Remix” button in the bottom left corner. This allows you to transform it with a prompt using the Nano Banana model.
MLS encryption: Universal Profile 3.0 adds support for the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol that enables cross-platform (Android-iOS) RCS that is end-to-end encrypted (E2EE).
Image viewer redesign: Google is testing a revamp of how images appear in a thread, with photos uploaded at the same time now grouped together. The full-screen image viewer has also been redesigned with a blurred background and previews of the last and next image, and you can react from the new bottom row.
See also: Google Messages update brings RCS chat improvements
Read receipts redesign: Following the last refresh in early 2023, another refresh places read receipts in a circle in the bottom right corner of message and image bubbles. Swipe left to see all timestamps and end-to-end encryption status, while swipe left to reply/quote a message.
Tweaked camera + gallery icon: A small tweak sees the gallery icon in the text field drop down to the angled camera. There are no changes to the combined viewfinder and gallery.
Account menu redesign: Google Messages now has a full-screen account menu for access to Settings, Your profile, Archived, Spam & blocked, Mark all as read, and Pair devices. The previous overlay design allowed you to see the background, with the app now fully Material 3 Expressive.
Spam link detection: If a message appears to be spam, Google will warn you when you click on any link within it and prevent you from visiting the potentially harmful website. Available globally, you have the option to mark the message as “not spam.”
See also: Google Messages changes the way you attach images and videos
Key Verifier: As previewed in May, Key Verifier will help protect you from scammers trying to impersonate someone you know on Google Messages. This tool allows you to verify the other party’s identity through public encryption keys. These contact keys come in the form of a QR code that can also be obtained through the Google Contacts.
