Google Messages is reportedly gearing up to introduce new features aimed at enhancing the group chat experience. According to a report by 9To5Google, the latest beta version of the app—version 20250331_02_RC00—contains hidden lines of code suggesting some exciting updates in the works.
Easier group invites with links and QR codes
One of the most notable additions expected in this update is the ability to invite people to a group chat via a unique link or QR code. This feature would allow users to share an invitation with friends, making it far simpler to join a conversation without needing to be manually added by an existing member.
However, Google appears to be adding a built-in security measure to prevent misuse. As per the findings, these group links and QR codes will expire after a few days, ensuring they remain useful for private and trusted circles rather than large-scale or public sharing.
Additionally, users will likely have the ability to reset the invitation link at any time. This means that if an invite gets shared too widely or reaches unintended recipients, group admins can easily generate a new secure link.
More control over group conversations
Alongside improved group invites, Google Messages is also working on other key enhancements to streamline conversations. The update may include:
- Personalised group icons – allowing users to set a custom image for their group chat.
- Message deletion for everyone – making it possible to remove sent messages from the entire conversation, similar to features seen in WhatsApp and Telegram.
These additions would bring Google Messages more in line with other popular messaging apps, providing greater control over how messages are shared and managed in group settings.
Mentions and snooze options for better group management
Another feature hinted at in the beta code is the introduction of mentions. This would allow users to tag specific people within a group chat, ensuring that their message is more noticeable. When someone is mentioned, they may receive a notification, even if the group is muted.
In addition, Google Messages may soon offer a snooze notifications feature, allowing users to mute alerts from a specific group for a set duration. The available snooze options are expected to include:
- One hour
- Eight hours
- 24 hours
- Always (permanent mute)
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A key detail noted in the report is that when someone snoozes a conversation, other members will not be notified. This means users can quietly mute a busy group chat without alerting anyone else, making it a discreet way to manage notifications.
A step towards a more competitive messaging app
While Google Messages has long been a default option for Android users, it has often lagged behind competitors like WhatsApp, iMessage, and Telegram in terms of advanced group chat features. With these upcoming updates, Google appears to be closing the gap, offering features that make managing group conversations smoother and more customisable.
Though these enhancements have been spotted in beta testing, there is no official release date yet. However, given their presence in the latest app version, it’s likely that Google will roll out these features to users in the near future.
For those who rely on Google Messages for everyday communication, these changes could significantly improve how group conversations are handled, making it easier to invite new members, manage notifications, and organise discussions.
