Google Messages chat themes let users customize wallpapers and colors per conversation
Google rolled out chat themes to Google Messages in late August 2026, allowing users to set custom colors and wallpapers for individual conversations, a feature long available in other messaging apps. An Android Authority writer shared ten custom themes built from the app's included wallpaper collections, such as texture and space-photo backgrounds, paired with various accent color options.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The addition suggests Google is working to close a longstanding feature gap with rival messaging apps ahead of a broader redesign reportedly expected soon. Personalization features like chat themes can increase user engagement and time spent in an app, though whether this specific update meaningfully boosts Google Messages' popularity remains to be seen.
- Chat themes arrived in Google Messages in late August 2026, enabling custom colors and wallpapers per chat.
- The feature brings Google Messages in line with customization options long offered by competing messaging apps.
- A broader Google Messages redesign is reportedly expected to launch soon as well.
Google Pixel 9 Pro — Since Google Messages is a core Pixel experience, a Pixel 9 Pro gives you the smoothest, most native way to try out these new custom chat themes. It also means you'll get the big Android redesign and messaging updates first, right as they roll out.
See Google Pixel 9 Pro 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, 2026-10-31
Published there as: “The 10 best custom chat themes I made in Google Messages”
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