GoKawiilGoogle Messages extends chat themes to standard SMS conversations
Google is quietly expanding its chat themes feature in Google Messages beyond RCS conversations to include standard SMS texts, according to a Reddit user's discovery confirmed on a Pixel 6a. Users can access the feature through the three-dot menu or contact info page, though Google hasn't published official documentation about the rollout.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Because chat themes now only apply locally to the person who sets them rather than syncing across the conversation, Google was able to remove the previous RCS-only restriction without technical conflicts. This gives all Messages users, not just those in RCS chats, the ability to personalize their texting experience as SMS continues to coexist with RCS.
- Chat themes, once RCS-exclusive, now work on standard SMS conversations in Google Messages
- The feature is rolling out quietly with no official Google support documentation yet
- Themes apply only locally to the user who sets them, unlike the old shared 'Change colors' option
Google Pixel 8a Smartphone — If you're diving into Google Messages' new chat themes and customization features, there's no better device to experience them natively than a Pixel phone. The Pixel 8a runs stock Android with Google Messages pre-installed and gets timely updates, ensuring you get features like this the moment they roll out.
See Google Pixel 8a Smartphone 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, 2026-09-18
Published there as: “No RCS, no problem: Chat themes in Messages are now available for standard texts”
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