Google continues to evolve its Messages app with fun new features for RCS users. The latest update brings animated full-screen effects triggered by certain emoji combinations, adding a playful touch to conversations.
What’s New in Google Messages
Google Messages now displays colorful animated effects when you send specific emoji combinations in RCS chats. This builds on the existing Screen Effects feature, which previously only activated for certain text phrases.
Some key details about the new emoji animations:
- Only work in RCS conversations, not standard SMS/MMS
- Trigger when sending two or more emojis together
- Appear as full-screen animations on both sender and recipient’s devices
- Currently limited to certain emoji combinations (full list not published)
For example, sending “
” might trigger a burst of confetti across the screen, while “
” could display a vibrant rainbow animation.
How to Use Emoji Effects
Using the new animated effects is simple:
Step 1: Ensure you’re using the latest version of Google Messages.
Step 2: Start an RCS chat with another Messages user.
Step 3: Type two or more emojis in your message.
Step 4: Send the message and watch for any full-screen animations.
Not every emoji combination will trigger an effect. Google hasn’t published a complete list, so users are encouraged to experiment and discover new animations.
The Evolution of Google Messages
This update is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to make RCS messaging more engaging and feature-rich. Some other recent additions include:
- Magic Compose: AI-powered message suggestions
- Photomoji: Create custom emoji from your photos
- Voice Moods: Add visual themes to voice messages
Google is clearly positioning Messages as a strong competitor to other popular messaging apps, especially as RCS adoption grows globally.
Potential Impact and Reception
While many users will likely enjoy the playful animations, some may find them distracting. Google previously rolled out and then quickly removed a similar Screen Effects feature, suggesting they’re still fine-tuning the balance between fun and functionality.
The feature could encourage more creative emoji use and potentially increase engagement within the Messages app. However, it’s worth noting that these effects only work in RCS chats, which may frustrate users still relying on standard SMS with contacts.
Availability and Rollout
As with many Google features, the emoji animations are likely rolling out gradually. Users should keep their Google Messages app updated to receive the new functionality. The feature may not be available in all regions immediately.
Google Messages continues to evolve, blending practical communication tools with fun, expressive features. While animated emoji effects might seem like a small addition, they represent Google’s commitment to creating a modern, engaging messaging platform built on RCS technology.