^{In a latest update, Google Messages has begun testing the highly anticipated “message editing” feature, according to recent reports.}

This feature, which has been in development since December 2023, is now available to beta testers, indicating that its global rollout is imminent.

^{How the Feature Works}

The message editing feature is available in the latest beta version of the Google Messages app (messages.android_20240506_04-RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamiccom.google.android.apps.messaging). Users enrolled in the Google Play Store beta program with this version can now edit messages after they have been sent. However, there is a crucial caveat: the feature only works if the recipient is also on the same beta version of the app. If the recipient is not on the same version, the edits will not be visible to them.

^{Editing Time Limit}

According to tipster AssembleDebug, the editing time limit is currently set at 15 minutes, consistent with WhatsApp’s edit time limit. However, the tipster also suggested that the time limit might be increased to 30 minutes in the future.

^{Using the Feature}

To edit Google messages, users must long-press the message they wish to edit and then click on the new pencil icon that appears. This opens a new text box containing the original message, which can be edited. Once the edits are complete, tapping the checkmark icon next to the box confirms the changes, which will then be visible to the recipient.

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^{Edit History}

Google is also providing an edit history feature, which allows all participants in the conversation to see the original message and any subsequent edits. This means that multiple edits can be made to the same message, and users can view all the different versions.

^{Global Rollout}

While Google has not confirmed a global rollout timeline for the feature, its availability to beta testers suggests that it will be available to all users soon. The exact date remains to be seen, but users can expect to see the message editing feature in the coming weeks.