Disappearing Features: Google’s Not-So-Subtle Dance
“It goes away and comes back…”
It seems like this could be Google’s unofficial motto (we hope we haven’t stuck that song in your head!). The Mountain View tech giant has developed a bit of a habit—whether you call it cheeky or frustrating—of quietly removing features from its apps, only to reintroduce them later, often without fanfare. If you thought this was just your imagination, rest assured: you’re not alone.
It’s happened before. Remember that beloved tool in Google Photos? Gone, then set for a return. Or the handy gesture to turn off alarms in the Clock app—recently dropped, but apparently in line for a comeback. Now, history may be repeating itself, this time with a fan-favorite feature in Google Messages.
The Return of Message Edit History
Let’s jog your memory: in RCS (Rich Communication Services) conversations within Google Messages, you can edit sent messages. Previously, both the sender and the recipient could access a message’s edit history—by pressing and holding the message then selecting “View details” from the menu. Sleek, simple… and, as of July 2025’s interface redesign, quietly gone.
The feature’s disappearance didn’t go unnoticed. Some sharp-eyed users realized what was missing and weren’t shy about expressing their disappointment. Fortunately, Google might be preparing to right this wrong. Some lines of code recently spotted in version v20260121 of Google Messages—discovered by the folks at Android Authority—strongly suggest that this crucial function is poised for a comeback.
What To Expect With Its Return
The new code strings indicate that users will once again be able to check a message’s edit history. This means you’ll see both the original and modified versions of a message, making awkward “he said/she said” disputes a thing of the past. Android Authority even managed to activate this option, giving us a sneak peek before the public rollout. As for when Google will officially launch the feature, or if they’ll actually follow through—well, that remains a mystery. But judging by how far along development seems to be, bets are on that it could reach beta users soon.
Data Usage and Your Rights
Your choices matter: data such as emails might be used, depending on your selected options, by CCM Benchmark Group for purposes including targeted advertising and business outreach within Le Figaro Group, alongside their commercial partners. Enrollment in related forms leads to the processing of your email for advertising and personalized content, but you can object to this use at any time.
More generally, you have the right to access and correct your personal data, as well as request its deletion within the limits prescribed by law. The system is designed to be as transparent and user-friendly as possible, so you remain in control.
