Google is rolling out a new feature in its Google Messages app, allowing users to regain control over their contacts’ photos. This is excellent news, because the functionality was until now quite restrictive on the possible choices.
Since the introduction of “profile sharing” at the end of 2023,Google has required the use of Google profile photos. The company has finally updated this feature to make it easier to personalize.
The previous version automatically replaced locally set photos with contacts’ Google Account profile images, visible in the upper right corner of all Google apps. Faced with negative feedback from users regarding this loss of personalization, the company has developed a more flexible solution.
The new interface now offers two options: keep the “Google profile photo” or use the “contacts photo”. To make this change, users need to go to the details page by tapping the photo or name in the top bar, then select the small circular image. A “Manage in Contacts app” shortcut also makes it easier to navigate through the different options.
The customization process is intended to be simple: just swipe to choose the desired image and confirm with “Set as conversation photo”. This choice will then be applied throughout the Messages submission.At the same time, Google is working on another major improvement: an integrated backup system. Currently, backing up SMS and MMS is only possible via Google One as part of an overall phone backup. The company is developing a solution to directly manage backups from Messages, including a section dedicated to storage space.
Google Messages is therefore gradually improving its user experience, combining personalization and practical features. Updated support documentation details these new options, allowing users to freely choose between shared profile photos and local contact images. It now remains to be seen what users will think of this new feature.
| Feature | Description |
|———|————-|
| Profile Sharing | Allows users to choose between Google profile photos and local contact images |
| Customization Process | Simple swipe and confirm to set as conversation photo |
| Backup System | Integrated solution to directly manage backups from Messages |
Google Messages is preparing a revolution to secure your conversations between different applications. For more details, check out the Google Messages article.
Interview with Dr. Emily Carter: Google messages’ New Features Explained
Senior Editor (World Today News): Dr. Carter,thank you for joining us today. Google Messages has recently rolled out a new feature allowing users to regain control over their contacts’ photos. Can you explain the meaning of this update?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely. This update is a significant step forward in personalization. Previously, Google Messages automatically replaced locally set contact photos with google Account profile images.This was met with criticism from users who preferred their own customizations.The new feature now allows users to choose between Google profile photos and locally stored contact images, giving them more control over their messaging experience [[1]].
Senior Editor: How does this new customization process work for users?
Dr. Carter: The process is designed to be user-kind. Users can go to the details page by tapping the photo or name in the top bar of a conversation.From there, they can select the small circular image and choose between the Google profile photo or the local contact photo.A “Manage in Contacts app” shortcut simplifies navigation. Once the desired image is selected, users simply swipe and confirm with “Set as conversation photo.” This change is then applied throughout the Messages app [[2]].
Senior Editor: Google is also reportedly working on an integrated backup system for Messages. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Carter: Yes, this is another exciting development.Currently, backing up SMS and MMS messages is only possible through Google One as part of an overall phone backup. Google is now developing a solution to directly manage backups from within the Messages app. This will include a dedicated section for storage space, making it easier for users to manage their message backups without relying on external services [[1]].
Senior Editor: What do you think these updates mean for the future of Google Messages?
Dr. Carter: These updates indicate that Google is listening to user feedback and prioritizing personalization and practicality. by giving users more control over their contact photos and simplifying the backup process, Google Messages is becoming a more versatile and user-friendly platform.It’s clear that Google is committed to improving the overall messaging experience, and I’m excited to see what they roll out next [[3]].
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights. It’s interesting to see how Google Messages is evolving to meet user needs.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss these advancements in technology.
