Google Chat for Android introduces ability to star messages
Google Chat's Android app now offers users the facility to star messages in one-on-one, group, or Spaces conversations. This feature, which debuted on desktop last year, is now accessible on Android devices and will soon be available for iOS users. To star a message, including their own, users simply need to long-press the message and choose the "Star" option. The starred message will then be marked next to the date.
Accessing starred messages and overflow button
To view saved starred messages, users can tap the three-dot overflow button located at the bottom of the floating bar. A sheet will appear displaying "Mentions" and "Starred" options. The Mentions feature has been moved to accommodate the new Starred option. The Starred tab displays the conversation as well as the text of saved messages, making it easier for users to locate important information they've saved.
Design direction and availability
Google's decision to add the Starred feature, has taken the company in an intriguing design direction. An alternative approach could have been to place Starred and Mentions in the navigation drawer, which Google Chat already uses for user status/availability and settings. The option to star messages is now available in Google Chat for Android (version 2024.01.21.x) and its Gmail integration, with iOS users expected to receive the update soon.
3D buildings and automatic language translation
In related news, Google Maps on Android Auto is expanding its 3D buildings facility, for improved navigation. To note, the 3D buildings can only be seen in light mode. Also, Google Translate's version 8.0 has introduced a revised Conversation mode. It permits users to "automatically detect and translate languages as you converse."
