Google Messages

Messaging for everyday conversations

Google Messages is Google’s communication app for sending texts, photos, videos and group messages from an Android phone. It suits anyone who wants a single place for ordinary SMS and MMS alongside richer chats when RCS is available. With more than 5 billion installs, it is one of the most widely used messaging apps on Android.

More than basic texting

RCS conversations can support higher-quality photo and video sharing, typing indicators and more capable group chats. The app can also connect RCS users with people on iPhones, although the exact experience depends on the devices and services involved. Chat appearance can be personalised with features such as bubble colours, while selfie GIFs add a more informal way to reply.

Privacy and useful assistance

End-to-end encryption is available for personal chats between Google Messages users, including their attachments. The app also includes spam protection. For composing replies, Magic Compose and other AI-based tools can suggest wording, which may be useful when you know what you want to say but do not want to start from a blank message.

Scale, support and limitations

Google Messages is developed by Google LLC and holds a 4.58/5 rating from nearly 39.9 million reviews. Conversations can continue across supported phones, tablets and computers, and the app is also available on Wear OS. RCS features are not universal: availability can vary by country, carrier, device and data plan. Some functions may also depend on market availability or beta access.