Google Messages is finally catching up with its competitors by testing a long-requested feature: the ability to unsend a message after it has been delivered.
Messaging giants like WhatsApp, iMessage, and Telegram have long offered the option to delete sent messages from both sender and recipient devices. Until now, Google Messages lagged behind—but that’s about to change.
Limited Beta Rollout Begins
A limited number of users on the latest Google Messages beta are reporting access to a new “Delete for everyone” option. The feature was first spotted in late March and is now appearing in select group conversations, as shared by a Reddit user.
The option appears in groups with 12 members but not in smaller chats or one-on-one conversations, suggesting a phased rollout.
Even with the newest beta installed, not all users—including those on flagship devices like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra—are seeing the option yet. This suggests a server-side rollout or A/B testing strategy by Google.
15-Minute Window to Unsend Messages
Based on earlier reports, users will have a 15-minute window to delete a sent message. This aligns with the RCS Universal Profile 2.7 standard, which supports message deletion—a protocol that Google appears to be utilizing.
When a message is deleted, a “Message deleted” placeholder will remain in the chat, similar to WhatsApp. This approach differs from Telegram, where deleted messages leave no visible trace.
What Else Is New in Google Messages?
The unsend feature isn’t the only recent update. Google Messages has introduced several enhancements in recent months, including
- Message editing within 15 minutes (May 2024)
- Custom icons for group chats
- Spam control tools for RCS
- Full-screen emoji effects for expressive communication
Together, these updates show that Google is investing heavily in improving its messaging experience, especially as RCS adoption grows globally.
Public Release Still Unconfirmed
While this feature is promising, it’s worth noting that Google typically takes months to move features from beta to the stable channel. As of now, there is no official timeline for when message unsending will be available to all users.
The Google Messages unsend feature is a long-awaited improvement that brings the app closer to parity with its competitors. As the feature rolls out more broadly, users will finally be able to avoid the embarrassment of accidental messages—at least within a 15-minute grace period.
Keep an eye on updates if you’re a Google Messages beta user—this could be the beginning of a more user-friendly messaging experience on Android.
