Tag: Google Messages

  • Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google

    Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google

    Google appears to be looking into ways to make communication easier by adding third-party video calls right within its Messages app.

    New Features in Testing

    A new article from Android Authority indicates that the tech giant is currently trialing a feature that would let users start WhatsApp video calls without leaving the messaging app. Assemble Debug from Android Authority successfully activated and tested this feature during an APK teardown of Google Messages version 20250131. The process looks to be quite simple.

    How It Works

    If both users have WhatsApp set up, tapping the video call button in Google Messages will start a WhatsApp video call. In cases where the recipient lacks WhatsApp, the call will probably switch to Google Meet instead. At this moment, the feature seems to be limited to one-on-one chats, but the report hints that it might be available for group chats when the stable version comes out. Right now, starting a video call in Google Messages defaults to Google Meet, which means both users must have Meet installed, be logged into their Google accounts on both Messages and Meet, and have a phone number that works with LTE calling. Although this setup works, it isn’t always the easiest, especially since many people use other video calling platforms.

    Future Prospects

    While Google is currently testing this integration with WhatsApp, there’s no official announcement on when it might be available for everyone. It’s likely that Google will first test it in beta versions to gather user feedback before making it widely available. It remains uncertain what the specific requirements will be for WhatsApp to become the primary option for video calls. Will users have the option to choose between WhatsApp and Google Meet prior to making a call? Google hasn’t clarified this yet.

    It would also be beneficial if Google broadened this integration to include regular internet voice calls, not just video calls.

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    Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google
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  • Wear OS Smartwatches Set for Exciting Messaging Upgrade

    Wear OS Smartwatches Set for Exciting Messaging Upgrade

    RCS messaging is a feature that Google has been advocating for quite a while. The tech giant has also been urging Apple to implement it. However, currently, Google’s Wear OS does not support this feature. Messages sent from smartwatches using this operating system are treated as regular SMS texts.

    Potential Changes Ahead

    The good news is that this situation might soon improve. According to a report from Android Authority, the latest beta version of Google Messages has started to establish the groundwork for standalone RCS messaging on Wear OS smartwatches. This information emerged following an APK teardown conducted by Android Authority.

    In the new Google Messages beta for Wear OS, there are "some flags" which suggest that standalone RCS support might be on the way for these smartwatches. Additionally, the new code hints that the devices could support voice messages through RCS, enhancing the messaging capabilities significantly.

    Questions Remain

    It is still uncertain whether this update will be available for non-LTE smartwatches (like the 40 mm LTE Galaxy Watch 7 currently priced at $319.99 on Amazon). Nevertheless, Google could potentially roll out RCS messaging for these models since the protocol can transmit messages via WiFi. As for when this update may be released, a specific timeline has not been provided yet.

    Another important point to consider is that these code lines might have been mistakenly included in the recent Google Messages beta. If that is the case, the rollout of RCS messaging support on Wear OS smartwatches could take longer than initially expected.

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  • Google Messages will soon have the ability to edit messages

    Google Messages will soon have the ability to edit messages

    Google Messages, a widely used application for SMS and RCS messaging, is potentially adding a long-requested feature – the ability to edit messages after they’ve been sent.

    Greater Flexibility and Convenience

    The feature would provide users with greater flexibility and eliminate the frustration of having to delete and resend messages due to typos or other errors.

    Hidden Feature Discovery

    The possible addition of the message editing feature in Google Messages was discovered by Twitter user AssembleDebug (via TheSpAndroid), who found evidence of the feature hidden within the beta version of Google Messages.

    Google Messages will soon have the ability to edit messages

    Although the feature is not yet publicly available, its presence in the beta suggests that Google is certainly actively developing it behind the scenes.

    30-Minute Window for Edits

    AssembleDebug’s report says that users may have a 30-minute window to make edits to sent messages. Additionally, it appears that Google Messages would maintain a transparent edit history, allowing users to view any changes made.

    The editing process is expected to be simple: long-pressing the message would reveal a new pencil icon, which opens an editing field. However, the report indicates that other users must also have the feature enabled for edits to work correctly; otherwise, they won’t see the edited messages properly.

    Initial Testing Observations

    During testing with an RCS chat, users didn’t observe any editing changes on their end, but other recipients received the edited message as separate messages. This discrepancy is said to be because the feature is not enabled for them.

    Also, initially, the edit feature may only apply to RCS messages, not standard SMS. Although there’s no official release date for this feature, its potential inclusion speaks to Google’s ongoing efforts to improve the functionality and user experience of Google Messages.

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  • Latest update from Google Messages introduces exciting new features

    Latest update from Google Messages introduces exciting new features

    Google Messages Enhancements: Elevating the User Experience

    Google Messages recently introduced several significant enhancements in a software update, extending the functionality of the messaging platform. In addition to the Android 14 rollout, Google has incorporated eleven new features into the Android operating system to further improve the overall user experience. These updates will be rolled out through respective app updates or Play System updates.

    Ultra HDR Image Support for RCS Chats

    One of the notable additions is the Ultra HDR Image support for RCS chats. This feature enhances the quality of images shared through Google Messages, providing users with a more immersive visual experience.

    Voice Moods—Expression Enhancement

    Google Messages now allows users to express a variety of emotions through Voice Moods. This feature adds expression to voice replies, enabling users to convey their feelings more effectively.

    PhotoMoji Reactions

    PhotoMoji is another exciting addition to Google Messages. It enables users to convert their preferred photographs into dynamic reactions using on-device Google AI. This creative element adds a personalized touch to messaging conversations.

    Screen Effects

    With the implementation of Screen Effects, messages become more visually appealing. This feature adds vivid animations to messages, transforming text into dynamic visuals that captivate the recipient's attention.

    Custom Bubbles

    Custom Bubbles offer users the ability to personalize their messaging interface. Users can modify the conversation background and colors, creating a customized and aesthetically pleasing experience.

    Reaction Effects

    To make conversations more vibrant and unique, Google Messages introduces Reaction Effects. This feature adds vibrancy and individuality to routine discussions, making messaging more engaging.

    Animated Emoji

    The Animated Emoji feature enhances the visual appeal of text-based communication. By incorporating various visual effects into each message, users can make their conversations more lively and expressive.

    Personalization Profiles

    Users can now configure their profile image and name linked to their phone number, allowing them to create a unique personal identity for their messaging persona. This feature adds a touch of personalization to the overall messaging experience.

    With these innovative features, Google Messages continues to enhance the messaging experience for its users. These updates demonstrate Google's commitment to progress within the Android ecosystem and provide users with a more enjoyable and personalized messaging platform. Get ready to explore the new possibilities and elevate your messaging experience with Google Messages.

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  • WearOS Gets Enhanced with Useful Features as Google Steps In

    WearOS Gets Enhanced with Useful Features as Google Steps In

    New Features for WearOS, Google Messages, and Google TV

    Google has recently announced some exciting new features for WearOS, Google Messages, and Google TV. These updates will benefit all Android-based smartphones, Google TV devices, and WearOS-enabled wearables. Let's take a closer look at the new features for WearOS.

    Wear OS Smart Home Controls

    One of the key additions is the ability to control and dock compatible smart appliances like vacuums and mops directly from WearOS smartwatches. This allows users to have smart home control at their fingertips. Additionally, users can quickly build a suitable environment for various activities with these smart home controls.

    Wear OS Google Home Status

    With the new update, users can now manage the status of their Google Home devices directly from their WearOS devices. This means that users can easily set their Google Home status to Home or Away with just a quick check on their smartwatches. This feature ensures that smart home devices are in the appropriate state with ease.

    Wear OS Assistant Routines

    Another useful addition to WearOS is the ability to quickly initiate Assistant Routines via voice commands on the smartwatch. This feature allows users to maximize the efficiency of their daily tasks while on the go. With just a voice command, users can easily activate Assistant Routines and streamline their daily activities.

    These new features represent a significant advancement for WearOS, offering users enhanced control and convenience in managing their smart devices. As automation becomes an integral part of our daily lives, Google's updates aim to make interactions with smart devices more intuitive and seamless.

    Exciting Updates for Google TV and Google Messages

    In addition to the new features for WearOS, Google has also introduced some exciting updates for Google TV and Google Messages. Google TV now offers 10+ new Free TV Channels, providing users with more entertainment options. Furthermore, Google Messages now has Emoji Kitchen Combinations, allowing users to express themselves with unique and creative emojis.

    With these extensive updates, Google aims to enhance the user experience on WearOS, Google TV, and Google Messages. Users can look forward to an enhanced and intelligent user experience as they interact with their devices. Automation and smart home control are becoming increasingly integrated into our daily lives, and Google's updates are keeping up with these evolving trends.

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  • Google Messages adds Ultra HDR Image Support for RCS Chats

    Google Messages adds Ultra HDR Image Support for RCS Chats

    Google Introduces Ultra HDR Image Sharing for RCS Chats on Messages App

    Google has discreetly integrated functionality for sharing Ultra HDR images in RCS chats on its Messages app. This enhancement permits users with compatible devices to share and view Ultra HDR photos seamlessly within the messaging platform.

    Understanding Ultra HDR

    The Ultra HDR image format is designed to work with Android 14 and enhances the traditional JPEG format by embedding supplementary HDR metadata. Consequently, while the image can be displayed on any device, devices equipped with HDR-capable screens can fully appreciate the expanded spectrum of colors and tones.

    Uncovering the Feature

    The initial sighting of this feature was made by TheSpAndroid, who observed the inclusion of Ultra HDR image support in September, just preceding the release of the Pixel 8 series. This observation was authenticated through the presence of the "bugle.support_ultra_hdr" indicator in the APK.

    Preserving Ultra HDR Fidelity

    As reported by the GizNewsDaily blog, Google Messages safeguards the HDR gain map within Ultra HDR images. Consequently, when a sent image is archived, it ought to maintain its Ultra HDR integrity in Google Photos.

    Automatic Rendering of HDR Metadata

    Theoretically, when an Ultra HDR image is transmitted or received in a Google Messages RCS chat, the image should automatically exhibit the applied HDR metadata, provided that the device possesses an HDR-compatible screen.

    Distinguishing Ultra HDR Images

    Nonetheless, at present, there exists no method to differentiate an Ultra HDR image from a regular HDR image within Google Messages. Consequently, users will encounter difficulty in discerning between standard HDR and Ultra HDR images.

    Phased Deployment

    Google has not issued an official declaration concerning the rollout of Ultra HDR support in Google Messages. Nonetheless, it is anticipated that this feature will progressively become available to all Android 14 devices over the forthcoming weeks.

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