Google Messages is a messaging application developed by Google for Android devices, allowing users to send SMS, MMS, and RCS messages. It features a simple, user-friendly interface with options like group messaging, message search, and media sharing. The app also integrates with Google's RCS service, enabling features such as read receipts, typing indicators, and more, provided both users have RCS-enabled devices.

Currently, Google Messages is mainly designed for Android devices, with no dedicated app for iOS. Nonetheless, iOS users can still receive SMS and MMS messages from Google Messages users. To experience the full range of features, including RCS, an Android device with Google Messages installed is required.

Google Messages uses encryption for SMS and MMS, but these are not end-to-end encrypted. RCS messages, transmitted over the internet, come with enhanced security features. Google is working to introduce end-to-end encryption for RCS for better privacy, though this feature is not yet universally available.

Google Messages offers several features to improve communication, including group messaging, media sharing (photos and videos), voice messages, emojis, and stickers. It supports RCS with features like typing indicators, read receipts, and improved media sharing. Additionally, the app provides a web interface, enabling users to send and receive messages from a computer.

An internet connection is not needed for sending and receiving standard SMS and MMS messages, as these use your cellular network. However, to access RCS features such as media sharing and enhanced messaging, an internet connection via Wi-Fi or mobile data is required, supporting richer communication beyond basic texting.