With the rise of messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, one can easily overlook the default messaging app on their Android device: Messages. However, Google’s Messages app is a powerful messaging tool that offers features that other apps do not.
One of the major advantages of using Messages is its integration with Google’s other services, such as Google Assistant and Google Search. With Google Assistant, users can send and receive messages hands-free without even touching their device. They can dictate their message while driving, cooking, or doing anything else that requires their hands. Moreover, Google Search integration allows users to preview web links and view Google Maps locations, right within the Messages app.
Another great feature of Messages is its end-to-end encryption. Unlike WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, Messages uses the Universal Profile for Rich Communication Services (RCS), which encrypts messages in transit and at rest. This means that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages, making it more secure and private.
Messages also offers various customization options, such as chat bubble colors, notification tones, and font sizes. Users can even set individual notification tones for specific contacts, making it easier to differentiate between personal and work-related messages.
One of the most useful features of Messages is its Smart Reply feature. This feature suggests quick responses based on the context of the message. For instance, if someone asks, “Would you like to grab lunch later?”, the Smart Reply feature might suggest responses such as “Sure,” “No thanks,” or “What’s the plan?”. These suggestions can save users time and effort, especially when they’re on the go.
Messages also has a built-in spam protection feature that automatically detects and filters out spam messages. This feature is powered by Google’s machine learning algorithms, which analyze the content and sender of the messages to determine if they’re spam or not. Users can also block specific numbers or report spam messages to further improve the spam filter.
One of the latest features added to Messages is the ability to schedule messages. Users can compose a message and set a date and time for it to be sent. This feature can be useful for sending reminders or birthday messages at a specific time, without having to remember to send them manually.
Overall, Google’s Messages app is a powerful and useful tool for Android users. With its integration with Google services, end-to-end encryption, customization options, Smart Reply, spam protection, and scheduling features, it offers a complete messaging solution. Despite the competition from other messaging apps, Messages stands out with its unique features and capabilities.