Google Messages could finally be getting this WhatsApp-style group chat feature

Google Messages could finally be getting this WhatsApp-style group chat feature

  • 18.03.2025 12:39
  • techradar.com
  • Keywords: Google Messages, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal

Google Messages may soon introduce a WhatsApp-style group chat feature allowing users to tag individuals with @ symbols, along with a possible Android 16-inspired redesign.

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Estimated market influence

Google Messages

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Google Messages is enhancing its features to compete with WhatsApp and other messaging services, potentially increasing its market position.

WhatsApp

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

WhatsApp's dominance in the messaging app market could be challenged by Google Messages' new features.

Context

Analysis of Google Messages Potential Group Chat Feature Update

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Feature: WhatsApp-style group chat mentions feature (tagging users with @ symbol).
    • Similar to social media platforms and Telegram.
    • Sends direct notifications to tagged individuals/groups in wider chats.
  • Current State:
    • Code for the feature was discovered in an APK teardown of unreleased Google Messages code.
    • Functionality details are not finalized, based on educated guesses from other app implementations.
  • Recent Improvements:
    • Upgraded media quality.
    • Individual read receipts.
    • Message unsending capability.
  • Market Position:
    • Google Messages is the default messaging app on many devices.
    • Widely used globally.

Market Trends and Business Impact

  • Messaging App Competition:
    • Google Messages is increasingly seen as a legitimate rival to WhatsApp and other third-party services.
    • New features could shift user preferences from WhatsApp to Google Messages.
  • User Appeal:
    • The mentions feature aligns with modern messaging trends, enhancing group chat efficiency.
    • A redesign (inspired by Android 16) could attract users seeking a more polished experience.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Feature Differentiation: -mentions feature positions Google Messages as more user-friendly for complex group interactions.
    • Redesign may appeal to users prioritizing aesthetics and usability.
  • Strategic Considerations:
    • Enhancing default apps like Google Messages can help Google retain ecosystem loyalty.
    • Features like read receipts and media quality improvements strengthen its value proposition.

Long-Term Effects and Industry Implications

  • Potential Market Expansion:
    • A refined Google Messages could capture a larger share of the messaging app market.
    • Attracts users seeking native Android features over third-party alternatives.
  • Regulatory Considerations:
    • No direct mention of regulatory impacts, but new features may raise privacy concerns.

Conclusion

The potential addition of WhatsApp-style mentions and a redesign positions Google Messages to compete more effectively in the messaging app market. If implemented, these updates could significantly impact user behavior and shift preferences toward Google's offering over traditional third-party services like WhatsApp.