The recent update to Google Messages introduces a new design for read receipts, which is becoming widely available for beta users as of this week. This redesign replaces the traditional double bubble with a single circular icon that indicates four different message states: sending, sent, delivered, and read.
Initially tested in August 2024, the new feature integrates read receipts into the bottom-right corner of message bubbles, including standalone media. Users can swipe left to view sending times and the RCS encryption lock, while swiping right allows for replies. The rollout has been gradual, having been pulled and reintroduced multiple times during its development.
As of beta version 20260220_01_RC00, the final design appears to be confirmed. This update follows other enhancements, including planned features like location sharing integration and encrypted RCS testing across various platforms.