First things to do with Google Messages

Exploring the Enhanced Google Messages App

Google Messages, the ubiquitous app for Android and Wear OS users, has evolved significantly over the years. Initially known as Android Messages, it now offers a suite of features that rival Apple’s iMessage, including instant messaging, SMS, and Rich Communication Services (RCS). The addition of RCS and end-to-end encryption has transformed Google Messages into a modern communication tool, complete with group chats, emoji reactions, and more.

Send messages over Wi-Fi/data with RCS

For those moments when you’re without a cellular connection, perhaps while traveling or when data is switched off, RCS Chat comes to the rescue. This feature allows you to send messages over Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected. Setting up RCS Chat is straightforward:

1. Launch Google Messages.
2. Access Settings by tapping your profile icon.
3. Head to Messages settings.
4. Choose RCS chats.
5. Enable RCS chats by sliding the toggle to the right.
6. Verify your phone number if prompted.

Keep in mind, RCS messaging requires an active phone number, so a device without a SIM card won’t support this feature. But with a number, RCS becomes a superior alternative to SMS, offering instant delivery, read receipts, and group messaging with encryption.

Turn important conversations into movable bubbles

The Bubbles feature adds a layer of convenience by turning important conversations into floating icons on your home screen. This allows for quick access and response without needing to open the Google Messages app. Here’s how to bubble a conversation:

1. Open Google Messages.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Choose Messages settings.
4. Select Bubbles.
5. Decide between Selected conversations can bubble or All conversations can bubble.
6. Wait for a new message, then use the Notification window to bubble the conversation.

Bubbles are not tied to RCS, so you can use them regardless. For Samsung Galaxy users, the process is even more streamlined with a quick tap on the notification.

Reduce image sizes to send more quickly

Google Messages now allows you to send photos faster by reducing their resolution, which is particularly useful over slower connections. To enable this:

1. Open Google Messages.
2. Tap your profile picture to access Settings.
3. Go to Messages settings.
4. Activate Send photos faster.

This feature might be on by default on some devices, so you could already be enjoying quicker photo sharing without realizing it.

Toggle Show expressive animations

Expressive Animations bring your emojis to life in Google Messages. If you find them too distracting, you can easily toggle them off:

1. Open Google Messages.
2. Tap your profile picture to access Settings.
3. Toggle Show expressive animations as desired.

This feature may not be available on all devices yet, so check if it’s an option for you.

Clean up your message threads

One Time Password (OTP) messages can clutter your inbox. Google Messages lets you auto-delete them after 24 hours:

1. Open Google Messages.
2. Tap your profile photo for Settings.
3. Head to Message organization.
4. Enable Auto-delete OTPs after 24 hours.

Swipe left and right

Customize swipe gestures in Google Messages to archive or delete messages with ease:

1. Open Google Messages.
2. Access Settings through your profile photo.
3. Choose Message Settings.
4. Select Swipe actions and customize them to your liking.

Personalize your text bubbles with new colors

Change the color of text bubbles in individual chats to match your mood or conversation tone:

1. Open a chat in Google Messages.
2. Tap the three dots and select Change colors.
3. Pick a new color and confirm.

This feature is exclusive to RCS chats and may still be rolling out.

Turn your pics into emojis

Create Photomojis from your images to add a personal touch to your messages:

1. Launch the Google Messages app.
2. Open a chat and select the emoji icon.
3. Choose Create and pick an image.
4. Send your newly created Photomoji.

Photomojis can be used as reactions or saved as stickers for future use.

Happy messaging!

With these tips, you’re ready to enjoy a fully personalized Google Messages experience. Remember, the steps might vary slightly depending on your Android device. Once you’re familiar with the basics, delve into more advanced features like setting reminders, pinning conversations, and using Magic Compose to craft the perfect reply. Happy messaging on your Android device!