Google is finally bringing features to Android Messages application that many would appreciate. Google says that it is creating a messaging experience that would be available on multiple devices, and let you share whatever you want. One among the many features is rolling out is Android Messages for Web that lets you send and receive texts from your computer.
For Android Messages Web to work, you will have to be on the latest version of the Android Messages app. It sends SMS messages using a connection from your computer to your phone so that carrier fees will apply, just like on the mobile app. Like with many chat applications, you will have to scan the QR code, and it is unique to your computer and pairs the mobile app to that computer.
When you have unread messages, the Messages icon in your browser tab will show a red notification and the number of unread messages. Interestingly, Messages on Web has a dark mode which you can turn on from the settings menu. Now it also supports sending Gifs; you can tap the + button on the left-hand side of the compose bar to search for GIFs for your conversation. Smart Replies for Android Messages has been available for a while for limited phones like Pixel series, and this feature is now rolling out in English to more phones. Smart Replies suggests quick text or emoji responses to your messages.
Android Messages will now support link previews; you’ll see an inline preview of the link, directly in your conversation. The last feature in the list; next time when you receive a message with a one-time password or code from a secure site such as your bank, you can save time by copying that password directly from the message with a tap.
Messages for the web is starting to roll out today, while the rest of the features will be rolling out over the next few weeks. You can update the Android Messages app directly from Play Store here.