Google Messages is rumored to be introducing a new feature that will allow users to disable animations within the app. This update comes in response to feedback from users who found the current animation features, introduced as part of RCS, to be a bit overwhelming.

An APK teardown by 9to5Google revealed that a new setting called “Show expressive animations” is in the works for version 20240422_01_RC00 of the app. This suggests that users will soon have the option to easily toggle all animations on or off, with the possibility of disabling specific types of reactions as well.

Currently, the only way to disable animations in Google Messages is by turning them off system-wide for all apps, which can be inconvenient for those who only want to disable animations within Messages. Some users may feel compelled to do so because certain phrases or emojis trigger reactions and screen effects that interrupt the flow of conversation.

It’s worth mentioning that this feature is still in development and may not be available to all users immediately. It remains unclear whether the toggle will also impact animated emojis, which are a separate feature from message animations. In the meantime, if you’re eager to turn off animations and don’t mind doing it system-wide, you can navigate to your phone’s “Accessibility” settings, select “Color and motion,” and enable “Remove animations.”

The addition of animations in Google Messages has added a fun touch to messaging, similar to what iOS users enjoy on iMessage. However, it seems that Google may have gone a bit overboard with them, prompting the option for users to opt out. This choice will be welcomed by those who find the current animations distracting or unnecessary, offering more control over their app experience.