Google Messages might be getting a text editing feature soon. A recent teardown of the app’s code reveals hints of a text editing feature, potentially letting you fix typos or update messages after hitting send.

Google Messages

This news comes courtesy of TheSpAndroid, who unearthed evidence of the feature hidden within the November update. Specifically, they found four new flags within the code:

  • bugle.enable_edit_ui
  • bugle.load_edit_history
  • bugle.process_outgoing_edits
  • bugle.process_incoming_edits

The clues point to a chat app with message-editing features. The first flag hints at an interface for making changes, while another reveals the ability to see past edits. The third and fourth define how edits are sent and received.

Furthermore, the teardown indicates a new database for storing edit metadata, including timestamps and revision history. This suggests a well-rounded editing experience with detailed tracking of changes.

Now, it’s important to note that message editing isn’t officially part of the Rich Communication Services (RCS) standard. But that hasn’t stopped Google from adding new features. 

The company implemented end-to-end encryption in Messages even though it wasn’t part of the original RCS standard. 

The big question: when can Android users expect this text-editing feature? Unfortunately, the beta build currently offers no clues, and the feature might still be under development. However, there’s also the possibility that Google might ultimately decide to scrap it if it’s not feasible for the company.

Editing sent messages is common among messaging apps, from WhatsApp to Telegram. So, Google might simply be following suit and adding this feature to their Messages app.

Meanwhile, Google has delivered some cool new features for Messages to amp up its capabilities. These include PhotoMoji reactions, screen effects, and more. You can check out all the details here.

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