What new Google Messages features are rolling out [March 2026]

Like other Google apps, Messages for Android A/B tests many features. It can take the RCS/SMS client a rather long time to actually launch new functionality in stable. From various reports, Google announcements, and devices we’ve checked, this is the current state of Messages.

Update 3/14:

Still rolling out (beta)

These are Messages features that Google announced or have been spotted in the wild by beta users.

[New] Trash folder

Chats will now “stay in the trash for 30 days before they’re deleted.” You can access this new folder from the account menu.

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[Announced] Real-time location sharing

Powered by Find Hub, this joins the existing “One-time Location” option that sends a static Google Maps link. You will be able to select an increment — For one hour, Today only, Until you turn this off, Custom duration — from the new inline interface. After sending, there’s a rich…