Google Messages for Android

Google Messages is Google’s official messaging app for Android phones and tablets. It can be set as the default app for personal conversations, verification codes and service notifications received through SMS, MMS or RCS.

SMS, MMS and RCS messaging

RCS provides a more advanced alternative to traditional text messaging. Supported conversations can include high-resolution photos and videos, typing indicators, delivery and read receipts, and improved group chats.

RCS messages use Wi-Fi or mobile data. They can also work between Android phones and iPhones when both devices and carriers support the technology. If RCS is unavailable, Google Messages can send the conversation as a standard SMS or MMS instead.

Useful messaging features

The app includes conversation search, contact-specific notifications, spam reporting and sender blocking. Users can personalise supported conversations with different chat bubble colours and other visual options.

Magic Compose uses artificial intelligence to suggest or rewrite a message. Some expressive and AI-powered tools may depend on the device, market, language or app version.

Google Messages can also recognise verification codes and make them easier to copy when signing in to another service.

Encryption and spam protection

Eligible RCS conversations between Google Messages users are automatically protected with end-to-end encryption. A lock icon on the send button or beside a message timestamp indicates when encryption is active.

Standard SMS and MMS messages are not end-to-end encrypted. RCS conversations between Android and iPhone users also do not currently receive the same end-to-end encryption, so protection depends on the type of conversation.

Messaging from a computer

Google Messages for web allows users to read conversations and reply from a desktop or laptop browser. Conversations can also continue on compatible Android tablets and Wear OS watches.

The phone and connected device need internet access. Users should disconnect their account after using Google Messages on a shared or public computer.

How to download and install Google Messages

To download Google Messages for Android, open its Google Play page and tap the install button. After launching the app, select it as the default program for SMS and follow the setup instructions.

Existing SMS and MMS conversations remain on the phone when the default messaging app is changed. RCS activation may require phone-number verification, carrier support and an active Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.