Google Messages is set to add a bit more excitement to your conversations.
**Nadeem Sarwar**
If your text conversations have felt a bit uninspired since Samsung began directing users to Google Messages, there may finally be something to look forward to. Google seems to be working on a significant customization update for its messaging app, which appears to be the kind of feature that should have been present from the beginning.
**Samsung Messages spoiled us, apparently**
For years, those using Samsung Messages enjoyed a surprisingly extensive range of chat personalization options. Users could choose custom wallpapers from their galleries, themed bubble colors, contrast settings, and even wallpaper-based themes through the Good Lock module, making their chats feel uniquely theirs. This made chatting not only functional but also enjoyable. However, Samsung announced it would be phasing out Samsung Messages for Google Messages, largely because its app no longer supports RCS. While it may seem like a fair trade, it left many users staring at a very basic, lackluster chat interface, missing the personal touch they were used to.
**To be fair, Google Messages has some features**
Google Messages is not entirely devoid of options. By tapping the three-dot menu in any chat, users can select the “Change colors” feature, allowing them to change the background and bubble colors. While it works, the excitement level is akin to choosing between two shades of gray for office decor. There is no option to upload photos, mix and match features, or create a personalized chat window. For those transitioning from Samsung Messages, the reduction in customization has been a significant source of frustration.
**But, something more exciting is on the horizon**
It appears that Google is actively developing a more comprehensive customization suite for Google Messages, and the signs look promising. Strings discovered within the app indicate a dedicated “Custom” theme section that will allow users to modify backgrounds, adjust bubble colors individually, and upload personal images as chat wallpapers. There are also indications of Google Photos integration, making it easy to insert personal images. Additionally, a “Theme Preview” feature suggests users will be able to visualize changes before applying them, rather than making blind adjustments. Perhaps the most exciting news is the possibility to combine individual elements. Instead of being restricted to preset themes, users could potentially mix a custom photo background with a selected bubble color, offering the kind of flexibility that Samsung Messages users have long desired.
**None of this has been rolled out officially, so proceed with typical early-development caution.** Features still in development do not always make it to the final version, and timelines can vary. Nonetheless, Google’s focus on what users appreciated about Samsung Messages is encouraging. A messaging app that is visually appealing is significant, and currently, Google Messages has yet to fully harness that potential. Hopefully, this won’t be the case for much longer.
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**Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, with over five years of experience in the tech field.**
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Google Messages is set to add a bit more excitement to your conversations.
Your dull text bubbles are about to receive an upgrade.