Google Messages is testing a new version that streamlines the messaging experience for users. Currently, when composing a message, you see a single bar at the bottom indicating whether you’re sending a Text message or an RCS message. This depends on the recipient’s device and messaging app compatibility.

Here are some key points about the upcoming changes to Google Messages:

– The new design features a single text bar with emoji shortcuts on the left and options for the photo gallery and more on the right.
– The Recorder app shortcut remains conveniently accessible outside the text bar.
– With the latest beta version (20240404_01_RC00) of Google Messages, users will notice that after typing in the text field, there is no second bar above for additional shortcuts.
– This redesign eliminates unnecessary space, offering a cleaner interface for improved usability.

Overall, this update aims to enhance user experience by simplifying the messaging process and optimizing space within the app. Stay tuned for more updates on Google Messages as these changes roll out.