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I turned off these 8 Google Messages features, and the app is so much better now
AppWizard
September 28, 2026

I turned off these 8 Google Messages features, and the app is so much better now

Google Messages has evolved to include features such as read receipts, Gemini integration, typing indicators, and chat bubbles. Some users find these enhancements beneficial, while others view them as intrusive. The author disabled several features for a more streamlined experience, leading to less clutter and fewer distractions. The features disabled include: 1. Gemini Button: A floating icon for AI-assisted messaging, which can be disabled in Message settings. 2. Profile Sharing: Allows visibility of name and photo to contacts, with customizable privacy settings available. 3. Outgoing Message Sounds: Can be turned off to create a quieter messaging environment. 4. Floating Chat Heads (Bubbles): Can be disabled to avoid distractions and protect sensitive information. 5. Follow-Up Reminders: Prompts to respond to message threads, which can be turned off in Message settings. 6. Read Receipts and Typing Indicators: Create pressure to respond quickly and can be disabled in Message settings. 7. Sensitive Content Warnings: Can misidentify benign images and can be turned off for a smoother experience. 8. Smart Reply and Suggested Actions: Offers quick responses that may not fit all conversations and can be disabled. These adjustments have improved the author's messaging experience, allowing for more personal and less stressful interactions.
Google Messages gets a major gesture and menu refresh
AppWizard
September 26, 2026

Google Messages gets a major gesture and menu refresh

Google Messages is introducing refined gestures to enhance user experience on Android. Long-pressing a message now opens a floating menu with shortcuts for actions like copying, starring, or replying. Users can select specific text snippets instead of copying entire messages. Swiping left reveals message timestamps and encryption statuses, while swiping right allows for instant replies. The long-press menu replaces the top toolbar, providing quick access to functions such as Reply, Forward, Copy, Star, Delete, Select more, and Info. For images, options like Save and Remix are available. The text copying feature allows selection of portions of text, extending to images, videos, links, files, locations, and contact cards. Tapping a message reveals read receipts and timestamps briefly appear after a tap. These features are part of recent builds of Google Messages, including version 2026091003RC02, but the rollout is server-side, so not all devices will receive the updates at the same time.
Android 17 QPR1 Drops: Top New Features, Customization & UI Changes Explained
AppWizard
September 16, 2026

Android 17 QPR1 Drops: Top New Features, Customization & UI Changes Explained

Google has begun the rollout of Android 17 QPR1, which includes user interface enhancements, multitasking capabilities, and digital wellbeing features. Key features include: - Pause Point: Introduces a delay before opening distracting apps, encouraging users to engage in calming activities. - Material 3 Blur Expansion: Adds background blur effects to various system surfaces, including the volume panel and power menu. - Multi-Screensaver Support: Allows users to select and switch between multiple screensavers. - Custom Ringtone Vibrations: Users can assign unique vibration patterns for individual ringtones. - Taskbar Recent Apps: Displays actual recent apps on large-screen devices. - HID Access: New APIs enable applications to interact with connected USB and Bluetooth peripherals. - Health Connect Tracking: Natively tracks distance and calories through a built-in step counter. - Media Player Tweaks: Enhancements to the media player carousel and screen recorder functionality. Android 17 QPR1 is initially available for eligible Google Pixel devices, with other manufacturers to follow based on their release schedules.
Google rolling out Android 17 QPR1 for Pixel
AppWizard
September 15, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 QPR1 for Pixel

Android 17 QPR1 is rolling out for Google Pixel devices, coinciding with the September 2026 Feature Drop and security patch. Key updates include enhanced blur effects in the system UI, a redesigned system media player with a Material 3 carousel interface, updated Quick Settings with new animations and features, and improved app management options. The rollout includes Pixel 6, 7, and 8 series devices. Users can check for the update in Settings > System > System update. The Android Beta Program will continue for future testing, and users on the beta must opt out to receive the stable version without wiping their devices.
Gemini just got a 'floating bubble' multitasking upgrade that's a game changer on Android phones — here's how to use it
BetaBeacon
September 8, 2026

Gemini just got a ‘floating bubble’ multitasking upgrade that’s a game changer on Android phones — here’s how to use it

- Gemini is an AI assistant that has evolved into a multitasking tool. - Users can now complete more complex tasks through text prompts on Google Gemini. - The Gemini app now functions as a dynamic background module for multitasking. - The feature began rolling out on September 4 for Android devices. - The Gemini multitasking shortcut was previously available for specific Android devices. - The feature allows users to multitask while working in other apps. - The author hopes to see similar features for other AI tools on Apple and Android devices.
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