Like other Google apps, Messages for Android A/B tests many features. The RCS/SMS client can take a long time to release new functionality in a stable version. From various reports, google adsand devices we’ve checked, this is the current status of Messages.
Update 3/14:
Still in implementation (beta)
These are Messages features that Google announced or have been discovered by beta users.
(New) Trash Folder
Chats will now “remain in the trash for 30 days before being deleted.” You can access this new folder from the account menu.
(Announced) Real-time location sharing
Powered by Find Hub, this joins the existing “Single Location” option that sends a static Google Maps link. You will be able to select an increment (for one hour, today only, until you turn this off, custom duration) from the new online interface. After submission, there is a rich map in the thread that you can expand.
RCS encryption Android-iPhone
Starting with iOS 26.4 beta 2, Apple and Google are testing end-to-end encrypted RCS between iPhone and Android devices. iOS users will see a lock at the start of the thread, and Google Messages will use the same icon.
Receipt reading redesign
Read receipts are now placed in a circle in the bottom right corner of message bubbles and images. Swipe left to see timestamps and encryption lock, while you can swipe right to reply. This first started appearing in August 2024but now he’s seeing wide beta and stable availability.
| Ellipsis | Shipment |
| Single check with ring | Sent |
| Double check with ring | Delivered |
| Solid Double Check Circle | Read |
@mentions in RCS group chats
This ability to get a person’s attention in group conversations even “if their notifications are muted” has been slowly rolling out in recent weeks. It is not widely available yet.
Instead of a toolbar, long-pressing on an image or message opens a floating menu, with Google partially centering what you’re looking at. The background becomes blurred and you feel a haptic response.
Recent releases (stable)
Scam Detection Powered by Gemini
Gemini Nano on the device is being leveraged for “more nuanced analysis of complex conversational threats” on the latest flagship Android phones in the US, Canada and the UK. This includes the Pixel 10 series, Galaxy S26, and other select devices. It is being implemented now.
…can better detect the subtle conversation patterns used in job offer scams or sophisticated romance scams (also known as “pig butchering”), a deceptive tactic in which a scammer builds a long-term “relationship” with a potential victim to gain their trust, before tricking them into making a fraudulent investment. Because these methods rely on gradual manipulation and do not present typical warning signs, they require more advanced capabilities to detect them at scale.
Edit history on Details page
RCS edit history is available again. Press and hold an edited message to “View details.”
Nano Banana Remix faded
When you long-press on an image, “Remix” in the bottom left corner is now smaller. Meanwhile, the full-screen viewfinder has moved the button to the bottom row to provide an unobstructed image.
Other designs Google tested removed the banana emoji, but Messages now maintains that branding.
Old versus new
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