Google Messages is the default messaging app for millions of users. The app comes pre-installed with most major Android devices, including the company’s very-own Pixel flagships. While the service is chockablock with impressive features, some users were bemused by the app’s new Screen and Reaction effects. Well, Google is reportedly rolling out an update to disable the animation effects on the Messages app.
To get you up to speed, Google recently announced fancy Screen Effects and Reaction Effects for the Messages app. Screen Effects come into play when someone texts something specific, such as “I Love You.” This, in turn, would display a cutesy effect on the sender and the receiver’s screen. Similarly, users could interact with a message by choosing one of ten popular emojis. Doing so would bring up a custom animation on the text bubble.
Upcoming update will let users disable the Google Messages app’s animation effects
Naturally, these features aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. According to a recent report by 9to5Google, Google is reportedly rolling out an update that gives users the option to disable Screen and Reaction Effects.
As can be seen from the snippet attached above, the upcoming update will allow users to disable expressive animations. These include Reaction and Screen effects as well as Animated Emojis. The report further states that the reactions left on messages will still have some effect, although it will be toned down and appear much more minimal.
It’s important to note that the feature may be geo-locked, and the global rollout will happen steadily. As such, you may not be able to access it on your Messages app just yet. Regardless, the ability to disable the feature will surely reduce on-screen clutter and distractions. If you’re interested in the ability to disable the feature in the Messages app, keep an eye out for this update. As it should be hitting devices soon.
