Google Messages Unveils New Mentions and Trash Folder Features
Google Messages has officially introduced two new features: Mentions and a Trash folder. These updates were announced following a period of beta testing, bringing enhanced functionality to users.
Mentions Feature Revolutionizes Group Chats
The Mentions feature allows users in RCS group chats to tag specific individuals by using the "@" symbol. When a user is mentioned, they receive a notification, even if the group chat is muted. This functionality aims to ensure that designated recipients are alerted to messages relevant to them, potentially increasing engagement in group discussions.
This functionality aims to ensure that designated recipients are alerted to messages relevant to them, potentially increasing engagement in group discussions.
Users can mention multiple people in a single message. The feature also provides the convenience of editing the saved name of a recipient directly within the text field.
Introducing the New Trash Folder
The new Trash folder replaces the previous immediate delete action, introducing a "Move to Trash" option instead. This feature includes a quick "Undo" function for recently moved conversations, providing a safety net against accidental deletions.
Conversations sent to the Trash folder are retained for 30 days. For Android Go phones, conversations are kept for 7 days to conserve space. After these periods, messages are permanently deleted.
Conversations sent to the Trash folder are retained for 30 days, or 7 days on Android Go phones to conserve space, before being permanently deleted.
The Trash folder is accessible via the top-right corner profile menu, positioned beneath the Archive option. Users have the flexibility to restore threads from Trash to their main inbox with their full history intact, or they can choose to permanently empty the Trash at any time.
Rollout Underway
Despite the official announcement, these features are not yet widely available to all users. The rollout is expected to continue progressively.