Google Messages to improve backup process with encrypted in-app feature

Google Messages introduces a new Backup and Restore feature to make it easier for users to back up and restore their text messages, media, and settings directly within the app. This feature’s strings have been spotted in the Google Messages 20241118_02_RC00 beta version.

Currently, Android users back up their messages through Google One at the system level, but this new update lets users manage backups from within Google Messages itself.

The backup system will offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your messages are fully secured. Only you will be able to access the backup, with protection provided by your device’s screen lock.

When signing into the app on a new device, your conversations will automatically restore, providing a seamless transition. However, some devices without a screen lock may not be eligible for encrypted backups.

The backup feature is closely associated with your Google Account and Google One storage, which means you’ll need some extra storage space for backups. While users can choose to turn off backups at any time. Turning off the backup will permanently delete your conversations from your Google Account, although they will still be on your device.

You can also choose to back up media only over Wi-Fi, which can help save mobile data. Additionally, Google Messages will allow you to sync messages across different devices as long as you’re signed into your Google Account.

Aside from this, Google Messages recently rolled out the “Double tap heart ‘feature for Android users. This makes it easier to send a red heart emoji in response to messages.