Google has been working on the profiles feature for its Messages app for months, but it wasn't clear up until now what it's for. However, thanks to the latest APK Insight post, we now have a better idea of what this feature can do. According to 9To5Google, some strings of codes were spotted in the latest Google Messages beta app, giving us an insight into this upcoming feature.
The Google Messages beta version 20231106_01_RC00 describes the Profiles feature, where users can choose a profile name and picture so that other people can recognize them. Previous reports suggested that users will be able to create their own profile, just like they could do on other social media apps. Users can add their photos, name, and email address. Looking at the latest strings of codes, it was exactly what the Profiles feature would do for the messaging app.
There is no clarity if the Profiles is an RCS feature or hosted by Google Messages
Here are the strings of codes spotted for the Profiles feature in the latest beta.
<string name=”profile_settings_title”>Profile</string>
<string name=”profile_sharing_title”>Profile sharing</string>
<string name=”profile_onboarding_banner_title”>Choose your profile name & picture so people can recognize you</string>
<string name=”profile_onboarding_banner_snackbar_success_text”>Preferences saved</string>
<string name=”profile_onboarding_banner_snackbar_save_error_text”>Failed to save name & picture. Please try again later.</string>
Earlier, it was also reported that there will be an on/off toggle for Profile sharing and visibility. You can also turn on the toggle to receive notifications when a new contact is found or there are contact updates. It isn't clear at the moment whether the Profiles is an RCS feature or is hosted by Google Messages itself.