Google Messages rolls out ‘Double tap to heart’ for easy reactions

Google Messages is rolling out a “Double tap to heart” feature for Android users. This makes it easier to send a red heart emoji in response to messages. Instead of having to press and hold a message to bring up the reaction options, you can now just double-tap on a message to quickly send the heart emoji.

Since February 2024, the Double tap to heart feature for Google Messages has been in the works with select users experiencing it during earlier beta phases.. After months of testing, it’s now becoming available to more users.

Once you get and install the update, you’ll see a small message pop up the first time you use it, letting you know about the new feature. After that, it will disappear, and you can just double-tap away.

Interestingly, Google chose the red heart emoji for this feature, which seems more focused on love or affection. Many might expect a thumbs-up emoji, which is more commonly used for quick reactions.

This new feature is part of a broader redesign in Google Messages, which also enhances changing how RCS status indicators and read receipts work.

Notably, the change will remove the ability to tap directly on a message to view its timestamp or encryption status. Instead, users will now need to swipe left to access those details, which clears the way for the more streamlined double-tap gesture.

To enjoy this feature, ensure your Google Messages app running on the latest version.