Google Messages just got one of its biggest updates ever. If you're an Android user, this is something you genuinely don't want to miss. Google has been quietly turning its default messaging app into a full-on WhatsApp and iMessage competitor and honestly, it's working. Here's a complete breakdown of every new feature rolling out to Google Messages on Android right now.
What Is Google Messages?
Google Messages is the default messaging app on most Android phones. It supports both SMS and RCS (Rich Communication Services) — which is basically a much smarter version of SMS that works like a modern chat app. With end-to-end encryption, read receipts, high-quality media sharing, and now AI features, it has become one of the most powerful messaging apps available on Android today.
Google Messages Update Android 7 Major New Features
1. Gemini AI Is Now Available on All Android Phones
This is probably the biggest change in this update. Gemini AI inside Google Messages was originally only available on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices. Now Google has opened it up to every Android phone — as long as your device has at least 6GB of RAM, which most modern smartphones already do.
Gemini is now supported in 164 countries in English, with French support in Canada too. More language support is coming soon. If you haven't seen it in your app yet, it should be rolling out to you shortly.
Why it matters: You can now use AI directly inside your conversations to help draft replies, summarize chats, and more without leaving the app.
2. Encrypted RCS Messaging Between Android and iPhone
For years, Android and iPhone users couldn't message each other with proper encryption. That has now changed. Google Messages supports fully end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging between Android and iPhone meaning your messages are truly private, no matter which device the other person is using.
This is now live in the stable version of the app, so you don't need to be in beta to use it.
Why it matters: This is one of the most significant upgrades in mobile messaging history. Your cross-platform chats are finally secure.
3. New Long-Press Context Menu
Google has completely redesigned the menu that appears when you long-press a message. Before this update, a lot of useful options were buried inside a three-line hamburger menu in the top corner of the screen. Now all those options appear right below the message you pressed making them much faster to access.
This feature is currently rolling out to beta users, with a wider stable release expected soon.
Why it matters: Everyday actions like copying, reacting, forwarding, and replying are now just one tap away.
4. Real-Time Location Sharing Inside Chats
Google Messages now lets you share your live location directly inside any conversation, powered by Find Hub. It works just like WhatsApp's live location feature the other person can see exactly where you are in real time, right inside the chat window.
This is already rolling out to users, so check your app for the option.
Why it matters: No more switching to Google Maps or another app just to share your location with someone.
5. @Mentions in Group RCS Chats
This has been a long time coming. You can now @mention specific people in group chats to get their attention directly. Apps like WhatsApp and Telegram have had this for years, and Google Messages has finally added it too.
This feature is already live in the stable version of the app right now.
Why it matters: In busy group chats, @mentions make sure the right person sees your message without getting lost in the conversation.
6. Trash Folder for Deleted Messages
Accidentally deleted an important message? It's not gone forever anymore. Google Messages now has a dedicated Trash folder, giving you a chance to recover messages before they're permanently deleted.
It's a simple change, but one that a lot of people have wanted for a very long time.
Why it matters: You now have a safety net for accidentally deleted messages just like email.
7. Copy Part of a Message + Wear OS "Mark as Read"
Two smaller but genuinely useful updates have also arrived. First, Google is testing the ability to highlight and copy only a specific part of a message so you don't have to copy an entire paragraph just to grab one sentence.
Second, Wear OS smartwatch users now have a "Mark as Read" button that shows up directly in message notifications. You can mark a conversation as read without even touching your phone.
Why it matters: These small improvements add up to a much smoother, less frustrating daily experience.
Samsung Messages Is Shutting Down Switch to Google Messages Now
This is important for Samsung users. Samsung Messages is being permanently shut down in July, and Samsung itself is telling users to switch to Google Messages as their default app. If you're running Android 12 or higher, now is the time to make the switch before it happens on its own.
The good news? With all these new features, Google Messages is genuinely worth switching to.
How to Update Google Messages on Android
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android phone
- Search for "Google Messages"
- Tap Update if an update is available
- Once updated, open the app — new features will appear automatically as they roll out to your account
Some features roll out gradually, so if you don't see something yet, give it a few days.
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