Google has unveiled a significant update to its Google Messages platform, enhancing user customization options that have long been anticipated. As of late August, users can now personalize their chat experience by altering both the background and the color of messaging bubbles for individual RCS chats. This move comes as part of a broader initiative to elevate the messaging experience in 2026, addressing a gap that many users have felt compared to the more extensive customization features available in Samsung Messages.
While Google Messages has allowed users to modify chat colors for some time, the new customization capabilities promise to add a much-needed layer of personalization. This enhancement is particularly welcome for those who have found Google’s previous offerings somewhat lacking. The ability to infuse a personal touch into chats is a refreshing change, especially for users who have been waiting for such features to arrive.
It is important to note, however, that these new chat theme options are visible only to the user who sets them. Unlike the chat colors that alter the appearance for all participants in a conversation, the new themes will only be displayed on the device of the individual customizing their chat. Additionally, Google specifies that these chat themes require RCS messaging to be enabled. Fortunately, for most Google Messages users, this feature is activated by default if supported by their carrier.
How to change the chat theme in Google Messages
To begin customizing your chats in Google Messages, first ensure that the update has been successfully applied to your device. You can check this by entering a chat and tapping the three vertical dots in the top right corner. If the update is available, you will see an option for “Chat theme.”
Upon selecting this option, you will be presented with a variety of color choices, reminiscent of Google’s earlier customization features. However, the real excitement lies further down the menu, where you can explore different categories for background options, including:
- Animals
- Architecture
- Landscapes
- Sunsets
- Space
If you prefer a more personal touch, there is also the option to select a photo from your phone’s gallery. Before finalizing your choice by tapping “Apply,” take a moment to scroll back up to your conversation to preview how the selected background or photo will look. This ensures that you are satisfied with your customization before making it permanent. With these new features, Google Messages is poised to become the go-to messaging app for many Android users, especially following the discontinuation of Samsung Messages earlier this year.
