What you need to know
The latest beta version of the Google Messages app has unveiled intriguing enhancements to its Profile discovery feature, as revealed through a detailed teardown by Android Authority. These updates promise to give users greater control over their privacy settings.
- Users will soon have the option to conceal their name and profile picture from their contacts, or alternatively, display them solely to individuals with whom they engage in conversations.
- This Profile discovery feature made its debut in November of last year, although it has not yet been universally rolled out to all users.
Since its initial launch, the Profiles feature has been a topic of interest among users eager for enhanced privacy controls. The recent findings from the Google Messages v20241010 beta version suggest that Google is listening to user feedback and is committed to refining the messaging experience.
While the new privacy features are a welcome addition, they are not entirely novel within the realm of messaging applications. Many competing platforms have long offered similar functionalities, allowing users to manage their visibility and privacy settings more comprehensively. Features like hiding stories and statuses have become commonplace in various other Android messaging apps.
Despite these advancements, users of Google Messages currently face limitations regarding their profile pictures, as they are restricted to using the images associated with their Google or Gmail accounts. However, there is speculation that future updates may introduce the ability to customize profile pictures, further enhancing user personalization.
With these privacy options now emerging in the beta version of Google Messages, an official rollout appears imminent. The presence of these features on a Google Messages support page suggests that the search giant is preparing for a broader release, unless alternative plans are in the works.
