Google Messages is a free SMS and RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging app for Android devices. It[SQ]s Google[SQ]s default messaging app and aims to replace traditional SMS texting with a more modern, feature-rich experience.

Here[SQ]s a breakdown of its key features :

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SMS/MMS Support:

It handles standard text messages (SMS) and multimedia messages (MMS) just like any other messaging app.

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RCS (Rich Communication Services):

This is where Google Messages shines. RCS allows for features beyond basic SMS, such as:
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Read receipts:

See when your message has been read.
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Typing indicators:

Know when someone is typing a response.
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High-quality image and video sharing:

Send larger files and higher-resolution media.
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Group chats with reactions and replies:

Enhanced group messaging experience.
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End-to-end encryption (in some cases):

Provides added security for your conversations. Note that this depends on both sender and receiver using RCS and a compatible carrier.

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Cross-platform Compatibility:

While best used with other Google Messages users (for the full RCS experience), it can still send and receive messages from users on other platforms that don[SQ]t support RCS.

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Web version:

Access your messages from your computer[SQ]s web browser.

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Integration with other Google services:

Seamlessly interacts with other Google services and apps.

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Simple and clean interface:

Generally considered user-friendly and easy to navigate.

Essentially, Google Messages aims to be a better, more feature-rich alternative to the standard texting apps that often come pre-installed on Android phones. However, the full RCS experience depends on both you and the recipient using Google Messages and having a carrier that supports RCS.