Google is working on a new chat pinning interface for its popular messaging app, Google Messages. This change, which appeared in the latest beta version of the app, radically alters how users pin chats.

While the current version allows users to pin up to 20 chats at the top, the new system limits this number to six. Despite this limitation, the new interface allows users to arrange their pinned chats in their preferred order.

A New Era in Pinning

The new “Select chats to pin” interface offers a dedicated page where users can easily select the chats they want to pin. From this page, users can select from their recent conversations or contacts and search using the magnifying glass icon in the upper right corner. Pinned chats appear in a dedicated row at the top of the screen and no longer automatically move according to incoming new messages.

In the current application, pinned chats were moved to the top of the list when a new message arrived, changing the order. With the new system, users can maintain their defined order, resulting in a more organized messaging experience. This feature becomes a valuable control system, especially for users with many active chats.

New swipe gestures and additional features

Google plans to expand the swipe gestures within the application, in addition to the chat pinning interface. According to information in the application code, users can now use swipe gestures to block individuals or directly pin and unpin chats. In the current version, these gestures are used for functions such as archiving, deleting, or marking as read/unread.

In addition, the Google Messages beta version also offers the ability to change the location of shortcuts for sending attachments. Users can long-press and drag the attachment buttons to move them to their desired position on the grid. It should be noted that the features in question are currently under development and may be rolled out to all users in future updates.

What do you think about these steps Google is taking regarding chat management?