Google Messages Reintroduces Custom Contact Features

Google has revamped its "profile sharing" feature within the Google Messages app to provide users the ability to set custom names and photos for their contacts. Users can now personalize contact information on their own devices for those they communicate with via text messages. This move restores the flexibility lost due to an earlier update.

The previous update, which was released at the end of last year, automatically replaced user-customized contact details with profiles broadcasted by individual contacts themselves. The recent revision allows users to reapply their own preferences, personalizing how contacts appear in their message threads, reaffirming Google's commitment to enhancing user experience and customization.

Introduction of Profile Sharing

The profile-sharing functionality was initially introduced in late 2023 as part of Google's efforts to expand the reach of RCS messaging. It behaves akin to the "Contact Posters" seen on iPhones, offering a similar way for users to personalize contact displays. Android Authority uncovered hints within Android's code in October, indicating Google's intention to re-implement customer-controlled profile pictures.

Customizing Contacts in Google Messages

Google’s updated support documentation now provides detailed instructions on how to set a local contact photo which overrides the default image shared by contacts themselves. Users can customize a contact’s appearance by tapping the contact's name or photo within a Google Messages chat, accessing the details page, and switching the photo to their own customized version if desired.

This change reflects a user-centric approach, offering greater control over how contacts are visually represented within conversations. As the feature rolls out, it is expected to provide a more tailored experience for Google Messages users globally.