GoKawiilGoogle Messages adds per-chat custom themes and wallpapers
Google is rolling out a feature letting users personalize individual conversations in Google Messages with custom wallpapers and matching bubble colors. Users can pick from preset image categories like Animals or Space, upload their own photos, or select a simple color scheme, with a preview and reset option available. The customization requires RCS to be enabled and only appears on the user's own device, not for other chat participants.
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This brings Google Messages closer to feature parity with WhatsApp and iMessage, both of which already offer visual chat personalization, helping Google retain users who might otherwise favor rival apps. It also reinforces Google's push toward RCS as the standard for richer messaging experiences beyond basic SMS.
- Chat themes let users set custom wallpapers and bubble colors per conversation.
- Themes are private per-device and require RCS to be enabled.
- The feature mirrors similar personalization tools already found in WhatsApp and iMessage.
Google Pixel 9 — Google Messages features like custom chat themes and RCS land first and work best on Pixel phones. The Pixel 9 gives you a bright display to show off those new wallpapers and bubble colors, plus fast access to the latest Android and Messages updates.
See Google Pixel 9 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: androidauthority.com, 2026-08-27
Published there as: “Google Messages now lets you give every chat its own look”
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