Get started with Google Messages (2024)

FAQs

How do I start Google Messages? ›

Google Chat offers text-based communication as its primary feature, with additional support for audio and video calls. Google Messages is primarily a text messaging app with support for multimedia messaging and limited video calls.

Google Messages offers Quick Replies as pre-written responses to streamline conversations. Access the menu, go to Messages Settings, and select Suggestions to enable/disable and customize quick replies.

Fix problems connecting to Google Messages

On your phone, turn your Wi-Fi off and back on. Make sure your phone and computer are connected to the internet with a strong signal. If you have connection problems, restart your phone. Make sure your phone has background data turned on for Google Messages.

If you have an Android One or Google Pixel, Google Message is your default. If your settings are something else, easily change it by going to the Settings app, then hitting Apps and notifications > Advanced > Default apps > SMS app. Then, select the Messages app as your default messaging app.

With Google Messages, you can customize your experience, ensure private conversations, and enjoy the latest AI features.

Google Chat has some handy functions. The software uses predictive text options to automate replies. For example, if a coworker says, “Good afternoon,” Google will provide you a list of appropriate answers like, “Hello, how are you?” Once a chat is established, you share spreadsheets and documents from Google Drive.

In Google Chat, you can send a direct message to individuals or groups. Direct messages are private conversations between you and other people. Once you create a direct message, you can't add people, so the conversation remains private.

When you use RCS chats, your messages are sent over Wi-Fi and mobile data. As long as you're connected to a Wi-Fi network that you don't have to pay to use, there should be no cost to send and receive messages.

Does Google Messages use data or SMS? ›

Google Messages not only comes pre-installed on most new Android phones, but it's usually also set as the default messaging app. At its most basic level, it will display SMS and MMS messages that you receive through your network operator, but this is now the fallback option in terms of message transmission.

You can send and receive text messages, photos, voice messages, and video using Google Messages.

Google Messages, the default messaging app for many Android users, has recently lost two key features: message reminders and Google Photos integration. These removals have been met with confusion and frustration from users, who are hoping that the features are simply bugs and not intentional changes.

An “RCS” message is a “Rich Communication Services” message. RCS is Android's text messaging option allowing people to send “rich” messages to other devices. By “rich” messages, this is referring to text messages that include expanded features.

If you value features like RCS messaging, cross-device access, and spam protection, then Google Messages is a good option. If you prefer the layout of Samsung Messages or you only use Samsung devices, then Samsung Messages may be sufficient for your needs.

Now, the Messages icon is made up of two ovals with one extending down as a speech bubble would.