Google Messages can be used as an instant messaging app in addition to SMS and MMS. Here's how to activate chat functionality.
The Google Messages app offers conversation features enabled by RCS Messaging that enable users to send messages via a mobile data or Wi-Fi connection in addition to SMS and MMS. While a number of manufacturers and carriers have embraced RCS (Rich Communication Services) as a replacement for SMS/MMS texting, Apple has resisted adoption in favor of its own iMessage platform.
Chat functionalities, or RCS Chat as it is now formally known, are disabled by default. It is quite easy to turn it on, but there are a few conditions that must be met. The Google Messages app should be available on the device right away. Some manufacturers include their own Messaging apps with the phones they sell.
some devices, like the Pixel smartphones, already have Google Messages pre-installed, while others do not enable RCS texting. The Google Messages app is available for download from the Play Store for those who fall under the first category. Search for "Messages by Google" on the Play Store, then select "download."
Encryption Is Used For RCS Messages
Users must designate the app as the default Messaging app after installing it. Depending on the phone's brand, this can operate differently. But, users should be able to do this on the majority of Android handsets by opening the Settings app and looking for "Default apps." Select "SMS app" and select "Messages" as the default app after tapping the first result. Another prerequisite, in addition to owning the app, is network operator support, as not all carriers worldwide accept RCS communications. Launch the Google Messages app and touch the three dots in the upper right corner to enter the app settings menu to find out if a carrier offers Chat capabilities.
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must instead tap their profile image. Toggle the "Enable chat functionality" option. If a carrier offers the feature, a new menu item labeled "Status: Connected" or "Status: Setting up" ought to show up at the top of the menu. If it is the first option, they should also see a notice underneath that says "RCS Chat/Chat functionalities are accessible for...," however if it is the second option, they should receive a message that says "Trying to verify..." Users can start sending messages over Wi-Fi or a mobile data connection once the phone number has been validated or the connection status has been established.
The recipient's handset must also have RCS Chat/Chat functionality enabled in order to receive messages sent via an internet connection. The message box will say "RCS message" if you are sending a message to a contact who has the functionality enabled; otherwise, it will say "Text message." Users may communicate high-resolution photos, GIFs, files, contacts, and even their location via RCS Chat. Moreover, messages sent via RCS chat indicate when they have been delivered and whether the recipient has read them. Moreover, users have the option to enable typing indications in the RCS chat settings menu.
Users can still send SMS or MMS messages to the same contact after RCS messaging is enabled. Google gives consumers the ability to decide whether a message if the RCS chat fails to send, it will be immediately resent as a text (SMS/MMS). Detecting whether a message was sent through SMS/MMS or RCS conversation is very simple. RCS messages are dark blue, whereas messages transmitted using the former are light blue. Users don't need to worry about security either because RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted and are not viewable by Google or any other third parties. While encryption is engaged, the send button will display a lock. The time stamps of sent messages will likewise be locked. The Google Messaging software does not encrypt SMS/MMS messages, either.
Source: Google Support
