Google Messages introduces iOS reactions and embedded YouTube videos

Google is updating its Messages app to be even more compatible with Google and iOS apps.

Google has detailed new, recent, and upcoming changes to its Messages app to improve the RCS messaging protocol. Apple CEO Tim Cook recently made it clear that the Cupertino-based company has no plans to fix messaging capabilities in the near future, but Google’s feature additions improve the experience between iOS and Android. A few months ago, the giant released an update to Messages that allowed iMessage reactions to be displayed as emojis. More recently, it has become possible to respond to text messages from iPhone users using emoji.

Google is updating the Messages app

To make it easier to navigate group chats, the app will soon offer the ability to reply to individual messages when RCS is enabled – just swipe on a message to reply. The rollout is expected to take place in the coming weeks. Google has also expanded access to its voicemail transcription feature. Pixel 6, Pixel 6A, Pixel 6 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S22, and Galaxy Fold 4 owners can read the contents of a voice message instead of listening to it. The function automatically decrypts using machine learning. It was previously reserved for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro.

Another cool feature allows you to add reminders directly from the Messages app. Users who have set birthday reminders will even receive a notification when they open the app. In addition, the latter now offers to bookmark the message to keep important information close at hand or schedule a Meet and create calendar events when needed.

for even more compatibility with Google and iOS apps

Google has also given its Messages app a built-in YouTube player so users don’t have to exit the app when someone sends you a link to a video on the platform. Mountain View is also testing a feature that will allow users to connect with businesses via Search and Maps from within the app in certain countries. And for those who fly with United, the American giant has signed a free messaging deal with passengers using United WiFi starting this fall.

Finally, Google is updating the icons for Messages, Phone, and Contacts to “better reflect the modern messaging experience”and provide better harmony with other Google apps.