Google Messages: New Features – RCS, Trash Folder & More (2024/2026)

Google Messages is steadily gaining features, though as with many Google apps, the rollout isn’t always immediate. The RCS client often A/B tests functionality for extended periods before wider release. Here’s a look at what’s novel, what’s in testing and what’s recently launched as of mid-March 2026.

Trash Folder for Recovered Messages

A new “Trash” folder is being implemented within Google Messages, offering a recovery window for deleted chats. Messages will remain in the trash for 30 days before permanent deletion, providing a safety net for accidental removals. This feature is accessible through the account menu within the app. 9to5Google first reported on this feature earlier in March.

Real-Time Location Sharing via Find Hub

Google is expanding location sharing capabilities within Messages, leveraging the Find Hub service. Beyond the existing “One-time Location” feature – which sends a static Google Maps link – users will soon be able to share their location in real-time for defined durations. Options include sharing for one hour, for the current day, until manually turned off, or for a custom duration. The shared location appears as an interactive map within the chat thread. This builds on Google’s broader Find Hub initiative, which aims to consolidate device location and tracking features. More details on Find Hub are available from 9to5Google.

End-to-End Encrypted RCS Between Android and iPhone

Perhaps the most significant development is the testing of end-to-end encrypted RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging between Android and iPhone. As of iOS 26.4 beta 2, Apple and Google are collaborating on this implementation. IOS users participating in the beta will see a lock icon at the beginning of the chat thread, mirroring the visual indicator used in Google Messages. This represents a major step toward more secure and feature-rich cross-platform messaging, moving beyond the limitations of SMS/MMS. 9to5Google covered the initial testing phase in January.

Read Receipt Redesign

Google has redesigned read receipts within Messages. Instead of the traditional tick marks, read receipts are now displayed as a circle around the message bubble or image. Swiping left on the bubble reveals the timestamp and encryption lock status, while swiping right allows for a quick reply. This redesign, initially appearing in August 2024, is now widely available in both beta and stable versions of the app. 9to5Google details the rollout timeline.

@Mentions in Group RCS Chats

A feature allowing users to directly @mention individuals within group RCS chats is slowly rolling out. This functionality aims to ensure that specific individuals receive notifications, even if their overall notification settings are muted. While not yet universally available, it’s a welcome addition for managing larger group conversations. More information on group mentions can be found on 9to5Google.

Improved Long-Press Menu

The user experience for long-pressing on messages and images has been refined. Instead of a traditional toolbar, a floating menu now appears, blurring the background and providing haptic feedback. This design change aims to create a more immersive and intuitive interaction. 9to5Google provides a visual comparison of the old and new menus.

Recent Stable Launches

Gemini-Powered Scam Detection

Google is integrating its Gemini Nano AI model into Messages to enhance scam detection. Currently available on select flagship Android devices (Pixel 10 series, Galaxy S26, and others) in the US, Canada, and the UK, Gemini analyzes conversations for subtle patterns indicative of scams, such as job offer scams and “pig butchering” schemes. This on-device processing aims to provide more nuanced and proactive protection against fraudulent activity. According to 9to5Google’s reporting, Gemini can identify conversational tactics that traditional methods often miss.

Edit History Restoration

The ability to view edit history for RCS messages has been restored. Users can now long-press on an edited message and select “View details” to see previous versions. This addresses a previous removal of the feature and provides transparency into message modifications. 9to5Google has more on the restoration of this feature.

Toned-Down Nano Banana Remix

The “Nano Banana Remix” feature, which allows users to create stylized responses from images, has been subtly refined. The Remix button is now smaller, and the fullscreen viewer has moved the button to the bottom row for a less obstructed view. While earlier designs considered removing the banana emoji altogether, Google has opted to retain the branding. 9to5Google covered the evolution of this feature.

The pace of updates to Google Messages remains brisk, with a mix of beta testing and stable releases. As with all A/B testing, availability of these features will vary by user and device. The move toward end-to-end encryption with iMessage is a particularly significant development, promising a more secure and consistent messaging experience across platforms. Users can check their RCS chat status within the app settings (Messages > RCS chats) to see if they are connected and utilizing the latest features. Troubleshooting resources are available on Google’s support website.