What’s happened? Google Messages has finally started testing the ability to mention other users in RCS group chats.
- First spotted in a teardown earlier this year, the @mentions feature appears to be rolling out to some users with the latest beta release.
- Reports on Reddit (via 9to5Google) show that users can mention group members by typing “@” followed by their contact name. Typing “@” also opens a pop-up with a list of all group members, letting users tap to select.
- Mentioned users receive a notification even if they have muted the group chat.
Why is this important? Active group chats can easily bury important messages. The Mentions feature will guarantee key messages reach the right people.
- It brings Google Messages closer in line with platforms like WhatsApp, which already support mentions in group chats.
- Since the feature notifies users even if they’ve muted the chat, it ensures critical messages are not overlooked. However, overuse could lead to unnecessary distractions.
Why should I care? If you’re sharing something important in a group chat, the mentions feature will make sure your message gets noticed.
- You will no longer have to send separate direct messages to get someone to see what you sent in a group chat.
- However, overuse could result in your group chats becoming more annoying, as you will receive notifications for mentions even if you’ve muted a chat.
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What’s next? Google Messages appears to be testing the @mentions feature with a handful of users in the latest beta release (version 20251103_00_RC00). The feature is not widely available yet, but it could roll out to all users with a future update.
