A long-awaited feature has just been added to the Google Messages web app. Users can now directly reply to RCS chats, creating an experience closer to that of the Android version.

Unpacking the latest update

This recent upgrade marks one of the infrequent updates the Messages web app receives. Previously, hovering over an RCS chat on messages.google.com/web enabled you to copy text, delete, and react with emojis. However, the emoji options were limited to just seven, unlike the vast selection available on Android.

Enhancing the user experience

The new feature allows users to reply directly to RCS messages using the desktop web client. When replying, the chat displays above the text field, with a helpful “Reply to message” hint mirroring the Android app experience. This feature first arrived on the Android platform in October 2022.

A well-received change

This upgrade has been eagerly anticipated as the web app has long displayed quote replies made on or from phones, but lacked the direct reply functionality.

Feature exclusion for tablets

Interestingly, direct replies don’t appear to be available on Android tablets. It’s especially curious considering the move of the “Start chat” button from the top to the bottom-right corner of the conversation list. Although there have been complaints about the QR code-based client, particularly for the Pixel Tablet, the absence of direct replies is puzzling, given the usual feature consistency with messages.google.com.

An additional update

We’ve also noticed an update on Messages for Wear OS. There’s a new design for suggested replies, showcasing thin outlines for the pill-shaped container as opposed to filled buttons. This change could be in anticipation of design language revisions that might coincide with Wear OS 4.

What are your thoughts on these updates to the Google Messages web app? Do you think direct reply functionality improves the user experience? Please share your views in the comments below!