A Complete Guide on How to Unsend Messages in Google Messages

Have you ever found yourself wishing you could take back a message sent in haste? With Google Messages’ newly introduced beta feature, you’re now able to unsend messages! This functionality is particularly useful for rectifying mistakes made in group chats, similar to options already available on apps like WhatsApp. Let’s dive into what this feature entails and how to use it effectively, ensuring you can navigate it with ease.

Google Messages has been rolling out a series of updates that enhance its standing as a top messaging platform. The latest of these includes a feature that allows users to unsend messages, albeit limited to group chats consisting of 12 or more participants.

Unlike WhatsApp or Telegram, which provide a substantial grace period of up to 48 hours for unsending messages, Google Messages enforces a strict 15-minute limit. This necessitates prompt action if you intend to rectify any message mishaps.

Additionally, it’s essential to note that this unsend feature relies on RCS, or Rich Communication Services, which is a modern messaging protocol. For this feature to be functional, all participants must have the latest version of Google Messages installed, complete with RCS activated. If you’re interested in understanding how RCS messaging works on Android, check out this comprehensive guide to RCS messaging.

Currently, the unsend option is not yet available for one-on-one chats as Google continues to refine this feature. However, it undoubtedly offers a valuable tool for avoiding faux pas in group conversations.

Step 1: Join the Google Messages Beta

To unlock the ability to unsend messages on Google Messages, you first need to join the beta program. Follow these straightforward steps:

Open the Google Play Store and search for Google Messages.
Scroll down to the Join the beta section and select Join, then confirm your choice.
After joining, allow a few minutes for the app to transition to the beta version, then click on Update.

Be mindful that beta apps can exhibit bugs and glitches. Not all users will access the ‘delete for everyone’ option immediately due to gradual rollouts by Google. If beta testing isn’t your style, you might prefer waiting for a more stable version to hit the market.

Step 2: Delete a Message for Everyone

To unsend messages in group chats on Google Messages, just follow these steps:

Launch Google Messages and navigate to your group chat consisting of at least 12 participants.
Locate the message you wish to delete that was sent within the past 15 minutes.
Long press or hold on the message and select Delete for Everyone from the prompt. Then, click Delete to confirm your action.

Be aware that if any participants were offline or using a prior version of the app without RCS enabled, they may still see the message you intended to unsend.

If you accidentally delete an important message, there are methods available for potentially recovering deleted text messages on your Android device.

Step 3: Key Limitations and Best Practices

This feature, while beneficial, does have its restrictions. With a 15-minute window to act and a limitation to large groups, users should consider these best practices:

Always act swiftly to unsend your messages—don’t delay!
Encourage your group members to update their Google Messages for a seamless experience.
Keep an eye out for stable releases, which might expand messaging options.

The unsend feature in Google Messages presents a fantastic opportunity to prevent embarrassment in group chats. Consider joining the beta program to take advantage of this feature ahead of the official rollout!

For further details, visit the

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I join the Google Messages Beta?

To join the Google Messages Beta, go to the Google Play Store, search for Google Messages, and look for the beta option to join. Once you confirm, the app will update to the beta version shortly.

2. What happens if I delete a message in a group chat?

If you delete a message within 15 minutes of sending it, it will be removed for everyone in the group chat. However, users who are offline or on older app versions may still see the message.

3. Are there any limitations to the unsend feature?

Yes, the unsend feature only works in group chats with 12 or more participants, and it has a strict 15-minute time limit for deletion. Additionally, everyone must have RCS enabled for it to function properly.

source