Google Messages teardown shows privacy settings for Profiles

Screenshot: Android Authority

Google's potential new feature for its Messages app involves discoverability through its Profiles feature. A new code teardown shows that possible privacy options are available. You get the ability to show or hide your profile photo and show your name or a nickname if you prefer. You can also decide to only show your name and picture to people you message, your contacts, or to no one at all.

Announced last year, Profiles allows you to make yourprofile/account discoverable on the platform. It also gives you the option to upload profile photos. It suggests Google is still trying to revive its dreams of a social media platform after Google Plus crashed and burned. But it hasn't widely rolled out the feature yet so it's unclear how these privacy options and the feature itself will be used on the messaging platform.

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Samsung switches to Google Messages as default on US Galaxy phones

Photo: Samsung

Many Android phones rely on Google Messages by default, but Samsung has traditionally used its own app. This changes for US users with the Galaxy Z Flip6, Fold6, and newer models. Analyst Max Weinbach discovered a Samsung Members app announcement revealing that Google Messages will become the pre-installed texting app.

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Google adds Gemini chatbot feature to Messages app

Image: Google

Google has announced a series of Android and app updates ahead of MWC, including a new feature that lets you chat with its own chatbot Gemini: right from Google Messages. You can start chatting with Gemini as soon as you update the Messages app this week, but you’ll need to join Google’s beta testing program first.

There’s no need for a Google One subscription for this version, unlike Gemini Advanced which offers more capabilities but requires a subscription. While Gemini is reported to be a bit of a disappointing chat partner, integrating the chatbot into your messaging app might make it seem more friendly. Gemini in Messages is currently only in English and in select markets.

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Magic Compose in Google Messages comes to more markets

Screenshots: 9to5Google

Google introduced Magic Compose, a feature that helps users write better messages, at I/O 2023. It was first available only in the US. But now, it looks like it has expanded to other countries. It's been reported to be available in France and the UK.

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