Google is gradually transforming its Messages app into a more powerful communication tool, and the latest update adds one of the most requested features – the ability to unsend messages.
Since integrating RCS (Rich Communication Services), Google Messages has steadily expanded its feature list, offering options such as sending photos in original quality, improved group chats, and read receipts. Now, the new “Delete for Everyone” option makes it possible to remove messages even after they’ve been delivered.
Previously, once a message was sent, it remained visible on both the sender’s and recipient’s devices, leaving no room for error correction. With the new update, users can now long-press a message, tap the trash can icon, and choose between “Delete for me” or “Delete for everyone.” This means accidental texts, typos, or messages sent to the wrong person can finally be erased from both ends.
Hints of the feature were initially discovered months ago in the app’s source code, but Google has now officially rolled it out to all Google Messages users worldwide. The feature works through the RCS protocol, which allows modern messaging capabilities similar to WhatsApp, Telegram, and iMessage.
Although unsending messages is not a groundbreaking innovation—since competing apps have offered it for years—it’s a major improvement for people who rely on Google’s native messaging app. By introducing this capability, Google aims to strengthen its position in the messaging landscape and encourage more Android users to switch to RCS-powered conversations instead of traditional SMS.
The move highlights Google’s ongoing push to make Messages the default choice for Android communication, especially as Apple has recently announced plans to support RCS on iPhones. With features like high-quality media sharing, typing indicators, and now the ability to unsend messages, Google Messages is steadily becoming a true competitor in the global messaging market.
This latest update is rolling out gradually, so users should ensure their Google Messages app is updated to the latest version to access the unsend feature.