Google Messages Tests Rich Previews for Pinned Chats
Google is developing an overhaul of pinned chats in Google Messages, adding animated typing indicators and media previews for images, videos, GIFs, and audio.
Google is working on a significant update to how pinned chats work in Google Messages. The changes were discovered by digging through the latest version of the app, according to Android Authority.
The most visible change is a new typing indicator for pinned chats. Instead of the standard 'typing' text, an animated contact picture would appear, making it easier to see who is responding at a glance.
Pinned chats could also show previews of received media. Images, videos, GIFs, and audio files would appear directly in the pinned chat area. Video previews would display a frame from the clip with a play button, while audio previews would show a waveform with a play button. The app could also display icons for PDFs and contact cards.
Users might also be able to pin or unpin multiple contacts at once, streamlining chat management.
The features are still under development and are not available to users yet. They were made to work on the tester's device, but Google has not announced a release date.
Quick answers
What is changing for pinned chats in Google Messages?
Google is testing animated typing indicators, media previews for images, videos, GIFs, and audio, plus icons for PDFs and contact cards. Users might also be able to pin or unpin multiple contacts at once.
Are these pinned chat features available now?
No, the features are still under development and not available to users yet.
How were these features discovered?
They were found by digging through the latest version of the Google Messages app and made to work on the tester's device.