Google Adds Mentions and Trash to Messages App

Google has introduced two long-awaited features to its Messages app for Android devices: the ability to mention specific users in group chats and a dedicated Trash folder for deleted conversations. The updates, aimed at enhancing usability in busy group discussions and preventing accidental data loss, began rolling out this week to users with RCS-enabled chats.

The Mentions feature allows participants in group conversations to tag individuals directly by typing the @ symbol followed by a contact's name. This triggers a targeted notification to the mentioned person, ensuring they are alerted even if they have muted the group chat. Users can mention multiple people in a single message to draw broader attention, and the app permits real-time editing of a recipient's saved name from within the text field for privacy or clarity. For instance, a user could adjust a display name like "ToddNextDoor" to simply "Todd" before sending. Google officials described the addition as a way to "make sure the right person finds your message right when you need them," promoting better engagement in group discussions.

This functionality is available only in RCS group chats, requiring all participants...