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Google Messages logo on an Android phone.

Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority
TL;DR

  • Google Messages is introducing a new Trash feature that stores deleted chats for 30 days before permanently deleting them.
  • Users can now restore or permanently delete individual or all trashed conversations from the dedicated Trash section.
  • “Delete” actions across the app are replaced with “Trash,” preventing immediate, irreversible chat deletions.

Back in October, we spotted Google working on a Trash feature for Google Messages. This would allow users to move their conversations to a separate Trash section, where they will remain for a few days before being permanently deleted. While the functionality was obvious from the name, we didn’t have concrete details at the time. Now, with Google Messages v20260227 beta, we have our first look at the upcoming Trash feature for Google Messages.

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In the latest Google Messages beta, the “Trash” feature replaces the existing “Delete” feature, which deletes your chats instantly with no recourse. Now, when users long-press a single or multiple chats and tap the Delete button, they will see a pop-up that informs them the chats will be moved to Trash and deleted after 30 days.