Google Messages just got a customization setting I’ve wanted for years — how to use it
It's about time, Google.
Google Messages, a comprehensive texting app, has recently introduced custom chat themes, a feature long sought by users. As of late August 2026, the option to personalize conversations is now available, bringing much excitement to Android enthusiasts. To start customizing your chats, ensure your Google Messages app is up-to-date.
Open the Play Store, tap your profile icon, proceed to Manage apps & device, and check for updates. Once updated, enable RCS chats in the app settings. With RCS enabled, navigate to the chat themes page, where you will find various customization options. Choose from a range of chat colors, including your system accent color or custom wallpaper, or select one of eight predefined styles.
These adjustments affect the conversation background, chat bubbles, and other UI elements. Additionally, you can set a personalized wallpaper from a selection of pre-selected images or upload any image from your phone or Google Photos. Remember, these customizations are exclusive to your end of the conversation, ensuring privacy for your unique style.
Written by urgent.news from Android Authority's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
