Google continues to iterate on its messaging platform with a set of updates aimed at making group conversations more manageable and reducing accidental data loss. The latest changes to Google Messages introduce new tools for group chat interaction, along with adjustments to how conversations are deleted and stored.
One of the more practical additions is the introduction of mentions in RCS group chats. Users can now tag specific participants using the “@” symbol, triggering a notification even if the conversation has been muted. In active group threads where messages can quickly pile up, this feature helps direct attention without requiring everyone to keep notifications turned on. It aligns with functionality already common in workplace and social apps, suggesting a gradual shift toward making messaging threads more structured rather than purely conversational.
Another update builds on existing AI-assisted replies. A feature called Tap to Draft allows users to modify suggested responses before sending them. Smart Reply has been part of the app for some time, generating quick replies based on message context, but the ability to edit these suggestions adds a layer of control that was previously missing. It addresses a common limitation of automated replies, which can feel too rigid or impersonal when sent as-is.
Google Messages has also been refining its interface in smaller ways. Recent changes include a redesign of read receipt indicators, replacing the earlier dual-icon system with a simplified single-circle status. While largely cosmetic, it reflects ongoing adjustments to improve clarity and consistency in the app’s visual language.
A more consequential change affects how messages are deleted. Instead of immediately removing conversations, the app now moves them to a Trash folder. Users are given an option to undo the action, and deleted items are retained for up to 30 days before being permanently removed. On devices running lighter versions of Android, such as Android Go, this retention period is shortened to seven days. This shift mirrors broader trends across apps and platforms, where reversible actions are favored over permanent deletion to prevent mistakes.
Access to these features depends on having the latest version of the app installed. Google indicates that version 20260320 or newer is required for the full set of updates. As with many app rollouts, availability may vary depending on region and device, meaning some users might not see the changes immediately even after updating.
Taken together, these updates suggest a steady, incremental approach rather than a major overhaul. Google Messages continues to evolve toward a more feature-complete communication tool, particularly as RCS adoption expands. While none of the additions fundamentally change how the app works, they do address common friction points in everyday messaging.
