Google Messages just made viewing photos way better

Technology Dec 05, 2025

Google Messages has rolled out a slick new photo viewer, now in fullscreen with a blurred background to make your pics and videos pop.
You can swipe through all the media in a chat without leaving the conversation.
After months of testing, this update is now widely rolling out to both stable and beta versions.

Handy new features and cleaner look

Now you'll see who sent each photo, when it was sent, and get quick options to download or delete right up top.
There's also an easy-access menu for forwarding, sharing, starring, or checking details.
Images sent together are grouped for less clutter, and there's a handy emoji row at the bottom so you can react fast—because sometimes a smiley says it all!