Google Messages is finally giving Android users more customization and personalization options with Chat themes. After years of requests, the messaging app is evolving to allow deeper control over conversation appearance. The feature, initially spotted in beta, is now reaching a growing number of users.
Chat themes arrive on Google Messages beta
Since Tuesday, more Google Messages beta users (version 20260622_01_RC00) have received the server-side update that enables Chat themes. The rollout is not yet widespread, but it is accelerating. Once available, the overflow menu shows a red dot badge and the 'Change colors' option is replaced by 'Chat theme'. This marks an important step for Google, which until now offered only nine bubble and background combinations introduced in 2024.
Extended customization with colors and wallpapers
The new theme picker features a conversation preview at the top of the screen. Below, a color carousel lets users choose from nine options: one dynamic that adapts to the chat background, and eight static ones. The colors follow the system Material You palettes, ensuring consistency with the rest of the device. Beyond bubble colors, users can change the conversation background by selecting from predefined Google categories such as Animals, Architecture, Black & White, Cityscapes, Landscapes, Macro, Space, Sunsets, and Textures. It is also possible to upload a personal image from the gallery. Google notes that only the sender will see these changes, a shift from the previous approach.
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Google Messages catches up with competitors
This level of customization is now a staple in modern messaging apps. Google addresses a long-standing user request. While companies like Apple are boosting device RAM, as reported in the article on iPhone 18 with 9GB RAM, Google focuses on software personalization to differentiate. The update comes as instant messaging evolves toward richer formats. The feature is currently available on a limited number of devices, but the progressive rollout suggests a wider launch in the coming weeks. For those who do not yet see the option, patience is key: Google Messages is known for gradual server-side activations.
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To understand the significance of this change, consider that a customizable messaging app is not just an aesthetic whim but increases user engagement. With this move, Google aligns with platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp, which have offered themes for a long time. Making changes visible only to the device owner avoids confusion in group chats and respects privacy. The Chat theme joins Google Messages features such as RCS, end-to-end encryption, and Google Photos integration.
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According to initial reports on Reddit, the rollout began in the beta version and is reaching users in various countries. It is unclear when the feature will be available to everyone, but the presence of a server-side update indicates active testing. The community eagerly awaits the ability to change wallpaper and bubble colors independently, a long-missing feature. With summer 2026 underway, Google Messages is refreshing to offer a more modern experience.
For more on the evolution of Google apps, see the Wikipedia page on Google Messages, which describes the history and main features of the service.
Source: https://9to5google.com/2026/06/26/google-messages-chat-theme-start
