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Google Messages Surges as WhatsApp Users Shift

3/21/2026

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Summary

Google Messages Gains Popularity

Google Messages, a messaging app by Google, has gained traction as users shift away from WhatsApp with new features.
The app now allows real-time location sharing, making it a viable alternative for users who previously relied on WhatsApp.
Many users report preferring Google Messages for texting and location sharing, diminishing the need for WhatsApp.
The trend suggests a growing preference for Google Messages over traditional messaging apps.

Summary

Google Enhances Messaging

Google LLC announced two new features for its Messages app on March 20, 2026.
The Mentions feature lets users tag people in group chats with '@' to ensure notifications, even if the chat is muted.
Users can mention multiple people and edit their displayed names.
A new Trash folder holds deleted messages for 30 days to enable recovery and is accessible from the app's profile menu, replacing immediate deletion.

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Google Messages Gains Popularity

Google Messages, a messaging app by Google, has gained traction as users shift away from WhatsApp with new features.
The app now allows real-time location sharing, making it a viable alternative for users who previously relied on WhatsApp.
Many users report preferring Google Messages for texting and location sharing, diminishing the need for WhatsApp.
The trend suggests a growing preference for Google Messages over traditional messaging apps.

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