Google Messages Gets a Stylish Read Receipts Upgrade

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Google Messages is giving its read receipts a major style upgrade, making them bolder and easier to spot. While the feature has been around since 2020, Google has steadily fine-tuned its design, and the latest update might just be its best yet.

Key Takeaways

• Read receipts now have a white background for better visibility.
• Checkmarks are now neatly placed inside the message bubble.
• The update is rolling out to a small group of beta users and will expand soon.
• Read receipts work if both your device and carrier support RCS messaging.

What’s New with Read Receipts?

Google Messages has introduced a fresh update to its read receipts, making them more noticeable and user-friendly.

From moving the checkmarks inside the message bubble to adding a bright white background, these changes enhance visibility and streamline the design.

Here’s a closer look at what’s changed:

A Fresh Look Inside the Message Bubble

Google Messages revamped its read receipt design in August 2024 by moving the checkmarks inside the message bubble.

Previously, they sat below the bubble, squeezed between the timestamp and the RCS lock.

Now, the checkmarks are encased in a circular background, giving them a cleaner, more integrated look.

White Background for Extra Pop

The latest tweak, spotted by 9to5Google, introduces a white background behind the checkmarks. This design makes the read receipts more noticeable, especially in light mode.

However, for shorter messages, some users may find the change a bit bold.

Designed for Both Light and Dark Modes

In the original design, the circular background matched the color of the message bubble.

For dark mode users, the checkmarks remained white, blending seamlessly with the text. The new design maintains this contrast, ensuring readability across themes.

Slow and Steady Rollout

The updated read receipt design is rolling out gradually via a server-side update. Beta users were the first to get it in November, and it’s expected to reach more users soon.

For those already using the redesigned interface, the upgrade is a visual enhancement that adds clarity without compromising usability.

Why Read Receipts Matter?

Read receipts are a crucial feature of the Rich Communication Services (RCS) protocol. They let users know the status of their messages:

• Sending: Timer icon.
• Sent: Single checkmark.
• Delivered: Double checkmark.
• Read: Filled double checkmark.

To use read receipts, both your device and mobile carrier must support RCS.

What’s Next?

As Google Messages continues to roll out the update, users can look forward to a sleeker, more visually appealing messaging experience.

Whether you’re team light mode or dark mode, this subtle but impactful redesign keeps your conversations looking sharp.

Subscribe to our global Design Journal and stay updated with the daily design news.