Google Messages has recently introduced a suite of enhancements aimed at improving user experience and functionality. These updates encompass design overhauls, feature additions, and security improvements, reflecting Google’s commitment to evolving its messaging platform.
Material 3 Expressive Redesign
A significant transformation in Google Messages is the adoption of the Material 3 Expressive design language. This redesign introduces a more cohesive and modern aesthetic across various components of the app:
– Homepage and Chat Interface: The conversation list now features larger contact photos, creating a less cluttered appearance. Messages are housed within containers with rounded corners, distinguishing them from the app bar. The bubbly wallpapers have been replaced with solid colors, offering a cleaner look. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/08/20/google-messages-homepage-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
– ‘Plus’ Menu and Media Picker: The ‘plus’ menu, which provides access to features like Gallery, GIFs, and Stickers, has been revamped. Icons are now presented in pill-shaped containers, and the grid layout is more spacious. The media picker has also been updated with a connected button group for easier navigation. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/08/26/google-messages-chat-redesign/?utm_source=openai))
Enhanced Media Sharing
Google Messages has improved its media sharing capabilities:
– Gallery and Camera Interface: The gallery and camera interface now offers a fullscreen viewfinder, with recent images displayed in a grid below. Users can swipe up to access all photos, and after selecting or capturing an image, they can add captions before sending. This redesign aims to streamline the media sharing process. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/06/05/google-messages-gallery-camera-redesign-wide/?utm_source=openai))
– Image Viewer Redesign: Images sent simultaneously are now grouped together in the chat. The fullscreen image viewer features a blurred background and previews of adjacent images, with quick reaction options at the bottom. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/06/06/google-messages-material-3-expressive-more/?utm_source=openai))
Improved Text Composition
The text composition experience has been refined:
– Expanded Text Field: The text input field now accommodates up to 14 lines, allowing users to view longer messages without scrolling. This is particularly beneficial when composing detailed messages or sharing lengthy URLs. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/06/08/google-messages-text-field-limit/?utm_source=openai))
– Redesigned Text Field: The text field has been updated with a left-aligned, pill-shaped design that is slightly taller, providing more padding and a modern appearance. The arrangement of icons within the text field has also been adjusted for better usability. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/03/25/google-messages-text-field-redesign-2025/?utm_source=openai))
Spam Prevention and Security
To enhance user security and reduce spam:
– ‘Unsubscribe’ Button: A new ‘Unsubscribe’ feature allows users to opt out of unwanted messages from businesses, including promotions and non-essential content. This feature is available for RCS for Business messages in several countries and for SMS/MMS messages in the United States from short codes and alphanumeric senders. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/04/30/google-messages-unsubscribe/?utm_source=openai))
– MLS Encryption: The adoption of the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol enhances end-to-end encryption, facilitating secure cross-platform RCS messaging between Android and iOS devices. Users can verify the encryption protocol by accessing the message details page.
Customization and Personalization
Google Messages now offers more personalization options:
– Custom Group Chat Icons: Users can set custom icons for group chats, making it easier to distinguish between different conversations. This feature is accessible through the Group details page, where users can upload their preferred image. ([9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2025/05/07/google-messages-custom-group-chat-icons/?utm_source=openai))
Additional Features in Beta
Several features are currently in beta testing:
– @Mentions in Group Chats: This feature allows users to mention specific individuals in group RCS chats, even if their notifications are muted, ensuring important messages are noticed.
– Link Preview Redesign: Link previews now display a taller cover image, larger page title, and a more prominent background. However, the article snippet has been removed, reducing information density.
These updates collectively enhance the functionality, security, and user experience of Google Messages, aligning with Google’s ongoing efforts to refine its messaging platform.
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Google Messages rolls out major updates: Material 3 Expressive redesign, enhanced media sharing, expanded text fields, and improved security features. #GoogleMessages #Material3 #RCS #MessagingUpdates
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