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 3/22:
Still in implementation (beta)
These are Messages features that Google announced or have been discovered by beta users.
(Advertised) 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. This is still being implemented despite the official announcement.
(New) Tap to compose
This new option reduces accidentally sending smart replies. After enabling it in Settings > Suggestions, tapping a Smart Reply will place it in the text field to allow further editing before manually tapping the Send button.
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 |
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)
(New) Real-time location sharing
Powered by Find Hub, this joins the existing or rebranded “Single Location” option that sends a static Google Maps link. Tapping the new green icon in the attachments menu slides up a map with the ability to select an increment: for one hour, today only, until you turn it off, or custom duration.
Send adds an online map to the conversation, which you can expand to take up most of the screen. There is also a featured banner at the top of the conversation when sharing is active.
To remove the dot on the “more” button, someone must start a process to share with you.
(New) @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, but Google finally made it official.
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.”
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