The update is the result of a years-long effort by Google to ditch SMS, which was created decades before the first smartphones changed how we think about text messaging. If you live in the U.S, Google's Messages app (Opens in a new tab) should now officially support 'chat' features like read receipts, typing indicators, and better support for photo and group messages. New versions of the app have also been updated to support Android 12's Material You theming.Good news, green bubbles: Google has finally flipped the switch on an update that makes texting on Android more like iMessage. Google Messages is free to download and use. Some notable additions over the past months include Ai-powered messaging sorting, auto OTP deletion, and the ability to star important conversations. Google regularly adds new features and improvements to the app. Moreover, you get the power of Google Assistant right in your texting app. You can also send group texts, emojis, GIFs, stickers, videos, and audio messages using the app. Additionally, there are basic theming options, search support, spam protection, and a lot more. The Google Messages app packs support for sending text messages via your computer or pretty much any device that has a browser.

And it's also available for your Wear OS smartwatch. It comes pre-installed on Google's Pixel series and select other phones, but other Android users can download it from Google Play. Previously known as Android Messages, the Messages app from Google is the company’s official app for texting and RCS messages.

Google messenger app