Google Messages, the default messaging app for many Android users, is testing a new setting that will allow users to turn off Screen Effects and Reaction Effects. The toggle to disable these animations is called 'Show expressive animations' and was discovered in the latest beta build of the app.
Google Messages, which comes pre-installed on most Android devices including Pixel phones, introduced Screen Effects and Reaction Effects earlier this year as a way to add visual flair to messaging. However, some users have expressed preference for a simpler texting interface and have been requesting an option to turn off these animations.
The new toggle is expected to impact not only Screen Effects and Reaction Effects but also Animated Emojis. Turning off the toggle doesn't affect photomoji or emoji reactions, which still display a smaller animation when used.
Google Messages has been testing this feature in beta for some time now, with the toggle not yet being visible on all devices. It is currently unclear if this feature will be rolled out to the stable version of the app for all users or if it will remain limited to certain regions or a select group of beta testers.
Google Messages has been a popular choice among Android users due to its simplicity and ease of use. The addition of Screen Effects and Reaction Effects was seen as an attempt to make the app more engaging, but some users have found these features distracting or unnecessary. With the new toggle, Google is catering to those who prefer a more streamlined messaging experience.
If you're interested in trying out this new feature, keep an eye out for updates to the Google Messages beta version on your device. Otherwise, you may have to wait for a future update to the stable version of the app.
