Google Messages Introduces Text Unsend Option

Google Messages has recently introduced a suite of innovative features, enhancing user experience, security, and personalization. These updates aim to make messaging more interactive and secure, catering to the evolving needs of users worldwide.

AI-Powered Scam Detection

To combat the increasing threat of text message scams, Google Messages now employs on-device AI to detect suspicious patterns in SMS, MMS, and RCS messages. This feature provides real-time warnings for potential scams, ensuring user privacy by processing data locally on the device. Currently available in English, it’s rolling out in the US, UK, and Canada, with plans for broader availability soon.

How the ‘Unsend’ Feature in Google Messages Works

Google Messages has rolled out a new “Delete for everyone” option, allowing users to recall sent messages within a limited timeframe. Reports suggest this feature offers a 15-minute window during which users can retract their texts after sending.

This capability is made possible through RCS Universal Profile version 2.7, which provides the technical foundation for advanced messaging features. With this upgrade, Google has enabled users to remove messages from both ends of a conversation.

When a message is deleted using this feature, a “Message deleted” notification appears in the chat. This behavior mirrors the approach used by WhatsApp, where participants can see that a message has been removed. In contrast, platforms like Telegram leave no visible trace when messages are deleted, offering a more discreet experience.

This new addition enhances user control, offering a chance to fix mistakes or remove messages sent in error—making conversations on Google Messages more flexible and forgiving.

Enhanced Personalization Features

Google Messages has introduced several features to make conversations more expressive:

Photomoji: Transform your favorite photos into expressive reactions using on-device AI, adding a personal touch to group chats.
Voice Moods: Add emotions to voice messages with nine different effects, complemented by improved audio quality.
Screen Effects: Trigger vibrant animations by typing specific phrases like “I love you” or “It’s snowing,” enhancing the visual appeal of messages.
Custom Bubbles: Personalize conversation bubbles with different colors and backgrounds for each chat, avoiding confusion and adding uniqueness.
Reaction Effects and Animated Emoji: React to messages with popular emojis that trigger animated effects, making conversations more lively.
Profiles: Customize your profile name and picture, ensuring a unique and identifiable presence in group chats, even for numbers not saved in your contacts.

Improved Media Sharing and Editing

The media sharing experience has been revamped:

Camera and Gallery Integration: The live viewfinder is now merged with the camera roll, allowing users to preview and send recent shots seamlessly.
Original Quality Media: Users can choose to send photos and videos in their original quality, ensuring high-resolution sharing.
RCS Message Editing: Users can now edit RCS messages within 15 minutes of sending, with an “Edited” label indicating modifications.

Spam Control and Unsubscribe Options

To address unwanted messages, Google Messages has introduced:

Unsubscribe Button: A new feature allowing users to opt out of promotional messages from businesses, reducing clutter in the inbox.

Cross-Device Compatibility and Integration

Google Messages now offers improved integration across devices:

Cross-Device Syncing: Maintain conversations seamlessly across phones, tablets, and smartwatches.
Google Assistant Integration: Leverage voice commands to send messages, find media, or schedule messages hands-free.
Google Photos and Gboard Integration: Access photo libraries and personalized stickers directly within conversations, enhancing the chatting experience.

These updates position Google Messages as a leading messaging platform, combining security, personalization, and seamless integration to meet the diverse needs of users globally.