In a digital age where communication is everything, Google Messages has just leveled up in a big way. Imagine sending a message and then instantly regretting it — now you can actually take it back! Yes, just like WhatsApp, Google’s latest update brings the “Delete for Everyone” feature and even a notification muting option right to your default messaging app. Sounds like a game-changer, right?
Let’s break it down in plain English — what’s new, how it works, and why it matters to you.
Google Messages Just Got Smarter – Here’s the Big Reveal
If you’re someone who relies on SMS or RCS chats (the next-gen version of SMS), then Google just made your life easier. With the latest Google Messages update, you can now mute annoying message notifications and delete sent messages from both sides — just like you would on WhatsApp.
These features are rolling out to regular users gradually, but early testers have already had a taste — and the feedback? Pretty solid.
Delete for Everyone – Finally on Google Messages!
Ever hit “send” too quickly and wished you hadn’t? Whether it was a typo, a message to the wrong person, or something you just regret sharing, Google now gives you a way out.
With the “Delete for Everyone” feature, you can now erase that message from both your phone and the recipient’s — as long as both of you are using RCS chats (we’ll explain that shortly).
Mute Message Notifications with Ease
Let’s be honest — not every message deserves your attention. Whether it’s spam, group messages, or random updates, sometimes you just want peace.
That’s where the new “Notification Mute” feature steps in. Just like WhatsApp, you can now mute specific conversations in Google Messages, so your phone doesn’t light up every time someone sends you a meme.
What Are RCS Chats and Why Do They Matter?
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is the modern replacement for SMS. Think of it as SMS with superpowers — read receipts, media sharing, typing indicators, and more.
But here’s the catch: These new features like “Delete for Everyone” and notification mute only work on RCS chats, not traditional SMS. So, if you or your contact isn’t using RCS, you might not get the full experience.
Beta Tested, Now Live for All
These features first popped up during beta testing in February, where Google quietly introduced them to a select group of users. Since then, it’s been rolled out more broadly — so if you haven’t updated your Google Messages app, now’s a good time!
How to Use “Delete for Everyone” in Google Messages
Using this feature is super simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Long press the message you want to delete.
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Tap the trash icon that appears.
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You’ll see two options:
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Delete for me
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Delete for everyone
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Choose your desired action.
Important: You can only delete messages for everyone in RCS chats. If you’re messaging someone using a basic phone or SMS only, it might not work as intended.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
Not everything is perfect, though. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
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The “Delete for Everyone” feature won’t work in non-RCS (regular SMS) messages.
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If the other person is using an older phone or doesn’t have RCS enabled, they might still see the message.
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Deleting doesn’t guarantee complete erasure from the recipient’s memory (unfortunately, tech can’t fix that yet!).
New Personalization Options for RCS Chats
Google didn’t stop there. To enhance your texting experience further, they’ve introduced personalization features in RCS chats. Now, you can:
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Change chat themes
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Use custom emojis
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Add personal touches to your message interface
It’s all about making your chat space feel a little more you.
How to Enable RCS on Google Messages
Not sure if you’re using RCS? Here’s how to check and turn it on:
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Open Google Messages.
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Tap on the profile icon at the top right.
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Go to Messages Settings > Chat Features.
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Toggle “Enable chat features” to ON.
Once active, you’ll see indicators like read receipts, typing bubbles, and now — access to delete and mute features.
WhatsApp vs Google Messages – A Real Competitor Now?
With these updates, Google Messages is no longer just a simple texting app. It’s stepping into WhatsApp’s territory. And while WhatsApp still dominates with end-to-end encryption, global user base, and more mature features, Google is clearly catching up.
So if you prefer using your default SMS app and want some of those premium messaging features, you’re finally getting them — no third-party app required.
The Bigger Picture – Why This Update Matters
This isn’t just a cosmetic update. It signals a larger shift in how Android users communicate. Google is finally pushing RCS as the default messaging standard — and these upgrades are meant to encourage more people to switch from outdated SMS tech.
Also, it aligns with Google’s broader strategy to rival Apple’s iMessage and other OTT platforms like Telegram and Signal.
Final Thoughts: Should You Switch or Stay?
If you’re someone who:
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Sends lots of texts
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Wants WhatsApp-style features without WhatsApp
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Hates annoying message notifications
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Occasionally regrets sending messages
…then this Google Messages update is absolutely worth exploring.
Just remember to turn on RCS, and you’ll get a smoother, smarter texting experience.
Read More: Premanand Ji Maharaj Deepfake Scandal: What Really Happened? Truth, Trust, and Technology
Conclusion
Google is stepping up its messaging game — big time. With features like “Delete for Everyone” and notification mute, the default SMS app has gone from basic to brilliant. These upgrades bring a fresh, modern feel to your everyday chats and make Google Messages a real contender in the messaging space.
If you haven’t explored these features yet, it’s the perfect time to dive in. Your messages, your rules — just how it should be.
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