Google messages gets a business profile makeover for unified experience
A fresh look for business interactions in google messages
Hello tech enthusiasts! It's Elizabeth Moore here from TechSphere, and I'm excited to share some news about a subtle but significant improvement coming to Google Messages. Alphabet's messaging app is getting a visual refresh for how businesses present themselves, aiming for a more consistent experience across personal and business communications. This update, spotted in the Android Authority's testing of Google Messages version messages.android_20260220_01_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic, promises a more streamlined interaction with businesses contacting you via Rich Communication Services (RCS).
The evolution of business profiles
Previously, business profiles in Google Messages were a bit disjointed, offering “Info” and “Options” tabs. Navigating between these tabs could feel clunky. The latest update aims to remedy that, drawing inspiration from the clean and intuitive design of personal profiles. The goal is clear: Google wants to deliver a truly unified experience, blurring the lines between chatting with a friend and getting in touch with a business.
What's new in the business profile design?
The revamped business profile now prominently displays the company logo, followed by essential information about their business. Three readily accessible icons offer quick actions: a phone icon to initiate a call, a website icon for direct access, and an email icon to send a message. It’s a smart streamlining of the interaction process, making it easier than ever to connect with businesses directly within the messaging app.
Detailed information at your fingertips
The “Info” section of the new profile provides key contact details: the company's phone number, website address, and email address. The “Options” section presents a range of actions, from blocking and reporting spam to reviewing the privacy policy and terms of service – empowering users with control over their communication preferences. It’s a welcome addition for anyone concerned about privacy and security.
A unified design for seamless communication
The redesigned profile features four icon-filled “pills” for quick actions: calling, visiting the website, sending an email, and searching. Below these, you’ll find space for a company image, a “Call us at” phone number, a “Visit us at” web address, and a “Contact us at” email address. Switching between pages is simple, with a small arrow allowing you to navigate through additional information and options.
Getting the update and exploring further
While this update is currently in the open beta phase, it's a promising sign of Google’s commitment to improving the RCS experience. If you don’t already have Google Messages on your Android phone, you can easily install it from the Google Play Store. This is another step toward making RCS a truly viable alternative to traditional SMS, offering a richer and more integrated communication experience for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!