Google Messages Tests One-Tap Voice Notes in RCS Chats

Currently, Google Messages users can start a voice note by tapping the waveform icon and then tapping the large microphone icon, according to Android Authority. They can also long-press the waveform icon to begin recording. The beta contains signs of work on a single-tap activation, which would let users start a voice message more quickly.

Android Authority said the current interface provides a fallback if a user accidentally taps the waveform icon in a chat, and it published a video demo of the work-in-progress single-tap activation. While the change could be convenient for people who frequently send voice messages, the publication noted that it could also lead to unintended recordings.

The report compared Google's approach with other messaging apps. WhatsApp for Android already includes a similar single-tap voice recording feature in chats, according to Android Authority, while Telegram relies on a long press to begin a voice message. That contrast suggests Google may be trying to match a feature that is already available elsewhere, the publication said.

Android Authority said the Google Messages change is still only available in internal testing. It also said that it hoped Google would consider adding a toggle in the settings page to manage the single-tap voice-recording option, rather than making it the default. The publication added that frequent voice-message users may find the option useful, while others may not because of the risk of accidental activation.

The beta also shows work on other changes, according to Android Authority. These include a persistent search icon in chats and a revamp of pinned chats. As with the one-tap voice messaging, it is unclear if and when Google might make these changes publicly available for Messages users.