When it comes to messaging apps, Google Messages isn’t the first that comes to mind for many. It’s probably not even the fourth or the fifth with the incredible popularity of apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger.
Google is looking to change that by making some substantial improvements to its Messages service that could make it the go-to messaging app for many users. Or at least that’s the hope.
What’s New in Google Messages?
Google announced on The Keyword that it is bringing five substantial new features to Messages. Unsurprisingly, they all sound quite useful (though some have been available in other messaging apps for some time).
First, Google is adding reactions, a feature that’s proven rather popular in Apple iMessage. You simply need to long-press on a message to see the different reaction options. There’s like, love, laughter, surprise, sadness, anger, and dislike available. While not reinventing the wheel (reactions to messages are nothing new), it’s good to see Google catching up.
One of the cooler features of Messages is Smart Reply, and Google is making it even better than it already is. With the feature enabled, you’ll see stickers mixed in with the Smart Reply options, which should save you some time while creating a more personal feel.
Make the most of virtual moments with Messages:
?? Send reactions to messages
? Add stickers with Smart Reply
? Edit your photos directly in Messages
? Send voice messages
? Start a Duo video call directly from Messages
Learn more ? https://t.co/iow2rtiiJr pic.twitter.com/WVFtwleoSe— Google (@Google) July 22, 2020
A big part of messaging friends and loved ones is sharing photos. To make this a little more fun, Google has added an image editor directly into Messages. You can use it to draw or add text to images, which will make them feel a bit more special.
While voice messages aren’t new in Google Messages, the latest update provides a dedicated button that’ll make sending them quicker.
Video calling is integrated directly into Messages with this update. Google has added a button on the top of the screen that will quickly switch a text conversation to a Google Duo video chat.
How to Get the New Google Messages Features
Fortunately, you don’t need to jump through any hoops to try out the new Google Messages Features. You just need to download the latest version of the Messages by Google app for Android.
And if you’re not sure which messaging app to use, take a look at our comparison of the best free messaging apps to make a more informed decision.
Read the full article: Google Messages Gets Reactions and Other New Features
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