Android Messages app is now receiving updates that will add features like money transfer, Duo video calling, and RCS for dual SIM phones. The update to version 2.7 is also smaller is size with a total size of just 5.7MB.
The new update will allow you to send or receive money in Google Wallet using the Android Messages app. You can also get in a Duo call with contacts who have installed Duo on their phones. RCS here stands for Rich Communication Service, making it a better experience for dual SIM users on the Android Messages app.
Android Messages app V 2.7 updates
Screenshots by AndroidPolice
While the final changelog is yet to come, AndroidPolice has performed a teardown of the Android Messages app to unveil these new features. First of all, the app now allows users to send and receive money in Google wallet using the Android Messages app. When the update comes, you can tap on the ‘+’ sign to request money via Google Wallet. If you have Google Wallet installed, you will also get a pending notification on the app.
Another major addition here is the Duo video calling feature. Now you can tap the camera icon on top of the chat window. This will start the Duo video call instantly. It is not available on all devices as of now so it means Google is rolling this update in a phased manner.
Other updates to the Android Messages include RCS support for dual SIM users and new message indicators so you know the number of new messages in a conversation thread. This is a useful addition to the app does not indicate the number of messages received. However, this was found in an APK teardown so it may not be there for some users.
You can download the Android Messages app from the Google Play Store here or get the APK here.
