Google Messages might restore edit history, and I couldn’t be more relieved

Google Messages Set to Restore Edit History After User Backlash

Google is reportedly working to bring back a feature in its Messages app that many users didn’t realize they missed—until it was gone. The ability to view a message’s edit history, which was quietly removed during a major 2025 UI redesign, appears poised for a comeback.

The feature, which allows users to see exactly how a message changed after being edited, was a subtle but valuable tool for maintaining clarity in conversations. Its removal during the rollout of Google’s refreshed Material You design left many scratching their heads—especially since the change didn’t seem to serve any clear purpose.

Now, new evidence uncovered through an APK teardown suggests Google is quietly restoring the edit history function, adapting it to fit the new interface. According to reports from Android Authority, the feature will likely live inside the updated full-screen message details screen, accessible via a long-press on an edited message.

Why This Matters

In recent years, Google Messages has evolved from a basic SMS app into a full-featured RCS messaging platform. With read receipts, typing indicators, high-quality media sharing, reactions, and end-to-end encryption, it now rivals the best chat apps on the market. But with that power came a small but meaningful oversight: the loss of transparency in edited messages.

Before the redesign, long-pressing an edited message would reveal both the original and revised versions—a crucial feature for avoiding misunderstandings. Whether you’re confirming a meeting time, clarifying a price, or fixing a typo that changes the meaning of a sentence, being able to see what was altered is essential for clear communication.

The Return of Transparency

The returning feature is expected to function much like its predecessor, just with a fresh coat of Material You paint. Google typically tests new features in beta releases before rolling them out widely, so don’t be surprised if it shows up in a future beta update first.

Edit history is more than just a convenience—it’s a cornerstone of trust in digital conversations. Especially in an era where RCS and encrypted messaging are becoming the norm, being able to verify what was said (and what was changed) helps maintain accountability and context.

What’s Next?

While there’s no official timeline for the feature’s return, the presence of functional UI elements in recent builds suggests it’s close to completion. For users who rely on Google Messages for both personal and professional communication, this is a welcome step toward making the app more reliable and user-friendly.

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