Google Messages' ability to edit sent RCS texts still not available widely

Update 10/09/24: The ability to edit sent RCS texts is now rolling out widely to more Google Messages users.

Original article follows:

Google’s much-anticipated message editing feature for its Messages app remains unavailable to most users, despite being announced a few months ago. The function, which allows users to edit sent messages within a 15-minute window, was touted as a significant upgrade to the messaging experience on Android devices.

In May, Google unveiled the feature in a blog post titled “7 new Android features to elevate your everyday.” The company promised users could “say goodbye to the *asterisk and edit messages after they’re sent,” positioning it as a solution to typos and unclear communications.

However, a recent Reddit thread reveals widespread frustration among users still waiting for the feature to appear. Many report checking their Google Messages app regularly, only to find the edit function missing. This includes users enrolled in the Google Messages beta program, which typically provides early access to new features.

This is just a personal anecdote, but as someone who’s on the Google Messages beta channel, I too don’t have the feature on my Pixel 7a and Pixel 8. Furthermore, no one in my household or friend circle has the feature either. 

The slow rollout has left many users questioning Google’s deployment strategy. One Reddit user commented, “Announces a feature in a blog post 3 MONTHS AGO. In this thread: no one has it.” Another added, “I’m on the beta, and still don’t have it. Went mad trying to figure out why.”

Some users report briefly seeing the feature before it disappeared again, suggesting Google may be testing it with limited groups or encountering technical hurdles.

While a handful of users claim to have access to message editing, they appear to be in the minority. The feature is designed to work only when both parties in a conversation have it enabled and are using RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging.

As the wait continues, Android users eager to edit their messages are left wondering when they’ll finally be able to bid farewell to the dreaded typo asterisk. Google has yet to provide an updated timeline for the feature’s wider release.