Google Messages: New Updates Focus on Storage and Group Chat Enhancements
Google Messages is rolling out a series of updates designed to improve user experience, with a strong focus on managing storage and enhancing group chat functionality. These changes aim to bring Google Messages closer to feature parity with other popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp, while also introducing unique improvements.
One of the most notable updates addresses a common problem for users: managing video storage. Google is testing a feature that replaces the forward shortcut with a quick delete button for video files received via RCS. This change, discovered in an APK teardown by Android Authority, makes it easier for users to free up space directly from the chat interface. Forwarding videos will still be possible, but will require a long-press, making the process slightly less convenient.
Beyond storage management, Google is also focusing on enhancing group chat features. Several new capabilities are either already rolling out or are expected to arrive soon:
- 'Delete for Everyone': This highly anticipated feature allows users to remove messages from the view of all participants in a group chat. However, it currently appears to be limited to larger group conversations and has a 15-minute time window for deletion.
- Group Chat Links: Similar to other messaging apps, Google Messages will now allow users to create invite links or QR codes to easily add people to group chats. These links can be single-use or reusable and will expire after 30 days.
- New Group Chat Icons: Users can customize group chat icons, which can help differentiate between conversations. While GIFs are not supported, this feature offers a visual upgrade to the platform.
Other improvements include an expanded text message field, increasing the visible lines from four to fourteen, and a new function for snoozing messages. Additionally, Google is reportedly working on live location sharing, similar to Google Maps integration, and has introduced Sensitive Content Warnings for users under 18, and also the option to send photos and videos in their original quality.
These updates represent a significant push to enhance the utility and appeal of Google Messages. By addressing user pain points like storage management and adding highly requested features like 'Delete for Everyone' and group chat links, Google is positioning Messages as a strong contender in the crowded messaging app landscape. However, the staggered rollout of these features means that availability may vary.
What do you think of these changes? Will the new storage management features make you more likely to use Google Messages? Let us know in the comments below!
