Now you can search for group chats in Google Messages
Google Messages is currently testing a new feature that allows users to search for group chats on Android. This update is a significant enhancement to the user experience on the 'New' conversation page of the app. Previously, when starting a chat, only individual contacts could be searched in the "To" field. Now, a "Group chats" section has been added that enables users to find multi-contact conversations, by searching for group names or participants.
Group chat search feature: A closer look
The new group chat search feature in Google Messages provides a preview of the last sent message in each group conversation. A chevron icon is also included, which directs users to the selected chat. This update is currently being tested with the latest beta version of Google Messages (version 2024082000RC00). However, it has not yet been rolled out to the stable channel for all users.
Recent changes in Google Messages
The introduction of the group chat search feature follows several recent changes to Google Messages. In October 2023, an update removed the "Top contacts" section from the New conversation page. A few weeks ago, the conversation picker/share user interface was also updated. These modifications are part of Google's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and functionality within its messaging app.