Google Messages pinned chats are getting a big iMessage-style makeover

Google Messages is rolling out an updated interface for pinned chats, along with an improved search feature. The recent app icon change is part of a broader redesign. Pinned chats, which previously occupied the top of the conversation list, are now moved to a dedicated section at the very top. Here, they display large circular contact photos with names underneath, giving the app a more iMessage-like appearance.

This new layout makes it simpler to quickly find favorite contacts and dive directly into their conversations. However, the change has a drawback: you can no longer see the last message or recent shared content in a conversation without opening it.

Moreover, Google is testing a new search interface. Traditionally, the search bar is at the top of the Google Messages home screen. With the new design, a floating search button appears alongside the Start chat button when scrolling through conversations. This allows users to search without having to scroll back to the top. Several Reddit users have reported seeing the updated pinned chats interface, but it seems to be rolled out gradually via a server-side switch.

Some users still haven't seen the new interface on their devices, even after updating to the latest version of Google Messages, like the author of these observations on their Google Pixel 11 Pro.