Google's Messaging app is taking new strides with several features rolling out this month. Key enhancements include improved encryption, a redesigned image viewer, and tools for detecting spam and verifying contacts.
New MLS encryption for cross-platform chats
Redesigned image viewer for better photo threading
Updated read receipts design enhances usability
Spam link detection warns users of harmful links
Key Verifier to combat impersonation
Standalone gallery access improves user experience
Google Messages is rolling out exciting features that will enhance the chatting experience. From stronger encryption to better design, users can expect a more secure and visually appealing interface.
Enhanced Messaging Security Features
Google is implementing Messaging Layer Security (MLS) for end-to-end encryption in cross-platform chats. This means that messages between Android and iOS devices will be more secure than ever. Users can check if MLS is activated by looking at the encryption protocol in message details.
Additionally, the Key Verifier tool helps users confirm the identity of their contacts through QR codes to fend off impersonators. This will be essential for preventing scams, especially in cases of SIM swap attacks where a hacker might try to pose as someone you know.
Revamped User Interface and Features
The app’s image features are getting a fresh look, with photos now grouped together. The redesigned fullscreen image viewer offers a better way to see shared images with previews of surrounding images.
Read receipts have also received an upgrade, now appearing as circles on message bubbles and allowing users to swipe for more details. The spam detection feature will alert users when clicking suspicious links, with an option to mark messages as “not spam.”
Image grouping for better visibility
Swiping to access additional message details
Warnings for harmful links
Improvements in Usability and Design
The app’s overall interface is now more streamlined, adopting a Material 3 design that emphasizes clarity. There’s a fullscreen account menu for quick access to settings and archived messages. Users can now also open their gallery separately from the camera, improving the ease of sharing images.
These updates not only provide a fresh look but also enhance usability, enabling a smoother user experience.
Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. He earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media.Throughout his career, Luca has been recognized for his clear, analytical approach to explaining complex technologies. His in-depth articles explore how AI innovations, privacy frameworks, and next-generation devices impact both industry and society.Luca’s work has appeared across leading digital publications, where he delivers detailed reviews, investigative reports, and feature analyses on major players such as Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, AMD, Intel, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Perplexity AI.Beyond writing, he mentors young journalists entering the AI-tech field and advocates for transparent, ethical technology communication. His goal is to make the future of technology understandable and responsible for everyone.
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