Changes to Google Messages
In a recent development that may have gone unnoticed by many, Google Messages has discreetly removed a couple of features that had been warmly embraced by its user base. Among the features that have vanished are the ‘Nudges’ and birthday reminders, which were designed to prompt users to respond to messages and remember important dates.
The ‘Nudges’ feature, in particular, was intended to act as a gentle reminder to reply to messages or to follow up on conversations. It was also helpful in remembering to send birthday wishes to contacts. These features, which had been part of the app since March 2022, were accessible through the Message Settings under Suggestions.
However, reports from 9to5Google indicate that these features are no longer available, leaving users puzzled about their sudden disappearance. Google has not provided an explanation for the removal of these features, leaving room for speculation.
Android users have taken to various platforms, including Reddit, to express their disappointment over the loss of these convenient features. One user lamented the removal of ‘Nudges’, stating, “Yet another useful feature removed. So frustrating.” They also mentioned missing location-based reminders and compared Google’s updates unfavorably with Apple’s, suggesting that Apple seems to be more consistent in maintaining and adding features.
Another user expressed frustration with the inconsistency of the app’s features, saying, “I’m so tired of removing great features.” The sentiment was echoed by others who found the birthday reminders particularly useful, with one user noting that they had come to rely on the feature instead of checking their calendar.
Despite the removal of these features, Google Messages continues to offer a range of functionalities designed to enhance the messaging experience. These include the ability to transform photos into emojis with Google AI, voice messaging with a selection of emotions, and screen effects that add animations to messages. Users can also customize conversation bubbles, enjoy animated reactions and emojis, and easily update their profile information.
As Google Messages evolves, users remain hopeful that their feedback will be considered and that perhaps, in the future, some of the beloved features might make a comeback or be replaced by even more innovative tools.
