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 5/16:
Table of contentsStill rolling out (beta)[New] Read receipts redesign IISamsung Messages will be discontinued in JulyMessages for web removing QR code pairingTap to DraftRead receipts redesign ILong-press menuRecent launches (stable)[New] Selfie GIF consistently appears[New] Encrypted RCS for Android and iPhone with iOS 26.5Trash folderReal-time location sharing@mentions in group RCS chats
Still rolling out (beta)
These are Messages features that Google announced or have been spotted in the wild by beta users.
