Google Messages Redesigns Read Receipts, Adds Account Sign-In for Web
Google Messages moves read receipts into a circle on bubbles, swaps QR pairing for Google Account sign-in on web, and adds Keep notes and chat themes.
Google Messages is rolling out a redesigned read receipt indicator that now sits in a circle at the bottom-right of message bubbles and images, according to 9to5google.com. The change moves the indicator from its previous position to a consistent spot on each bubble.
Messages for web is also shifting away from QR code pairing in favor of signing in with a Google Account. The update removes the need to scan a code from the phone to link a browser session.
Other interaction changes are arriving in the stable version of the app. Users can swipe left in a conversation to see timestamps and the RCS encryption lock, and swipe right on a bubble to reply. Long-pressing a message or image opens a floating menu that includes an option to copy only part of a chat.
Cross-platform and customization additions
On the Apple side, iOS 27 adds inline replies with quotes and photo reactions to RCS conversations between Android and iPhone users. Google Keep integration now lets users create and share notes inside chats, and a Chat theme option lets users customize conversation colors and wallpapers — themes appear only on the user's own device.
The updates arrive as Samsung Messages has been discontinued, leaving Google Messages as the primary messaging app on many Android phones. Google Messages also includes Gemini-powered scam detection.
Quick answers
Where is the new read receipt indicator in Google Messages?
It appears in a circle at the bottom-right of message bubbles and images.
How do I link Google Messages for web now?
Messages for web is moving from QR code pairing to Google Account sign-in.
What does swiping do in a Google Messages conversation?
Swipe left to see timestamps and the RCS encryption lock, or swipe right on a bubble to reply.