The Android texting app will once again allow you to set a custom name and photo for each of your contacts instead of sticking to what’s in their Google profile.
In a move that’s sure to please personalization enthusiasts, Google is revamping its Google Messages app to bring back customizable contact names and photos. This long-requested feature gives users more control over how their contacts appear on their devices, marking a shift from the restrictive changes introduced late last year. Whether it’s a quirky nickname for your best friend or a favorite photo of a colleague, the power to customize your contact list is back in your hands.
The Backstory: Why Did Google Remove Customizations?
The journey to this update started in late 2023 when Google rolled out its “profile sharing” feature as part of its broader push to popularize RCS (Rich Communication Services). This feature allowed users to broadcast their names and profile photos to others in their contact list, much like Apple’s Contact Posters for iPhones. While innovative, it came with a drawback: users’ custom names and photos were automatically replaced with the shared profiles of their contacts.
This move wasn’t well-received by everyone. Many Android users missed the ability to assign personalized names and avatars to their contacts, which often made messaging more fun and practical. Imagine losing the nickname you had for your best friend or the favorite snapshot of your sibling that brightened up your chat list. The outcry was significant enough for Google to take notice.
The Comeback: Customization Returns
Fast forward to now, and Google has listened to its users. The latest update to Google Messages reintroduces the ability to override shared profiles with custom names and photos. It’s a subtle yet impactful change that underscores Google’s commitment to balancing innovation with user preferences.
According to Android Authority, hints of this change were first spotted in Android code back in October 2023. Now, with the update officially rolling out, Google’s support page for profile sharing has been updated to guide users on how to make these customizations. The process is straightforward and ensures you can once again make your contact list truly yours.
How to Customize Contacts in Google Messages
Customizing your contacts in Google Messages is quick and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open a Chat: Navigate to a chat with the contact you want to customize.
- Access Contact Details: Tap on the contact’s name or picture at the top of the chat.
- Edit Photo or Name: On the details page, tap their profile photo. This will give you the option to switch between their shared profile photo or a custom one.
- Set Your Preference: Choose your preferred name or avatar for the contact. The changes will reflect only on your device, giving you complete control over how they appear to you.
This level of personalization is particularly useful for organizing your contact list or simply adding a personal touch to your messaging experience. Whether it’s for work, family, or friends, you can now make your contacts look exactly the way you want.
Why This Matters
This update isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about usability and personalization. In an era where digital interactions dominate, small touches like customized contact photos and nicknames can make a significant difference. It’s a way to bring personality and context into an otherwise impersonal medium.
Moreover, the feature aligns with Google’s broader mission to enhance Android’s messaging capabilities and make RCS a viable competitor to Apple’s iMessage. By offering features that cater to user preferences, Google is not only improving the user experience but also strengthening the appeal of its ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The return of customizable contacts in Google Messages is a win for Android users who value personalization. It’s a reminder that even in a world dominated by technology, small, human-centric features can have a big impact. So, whether you’re assigning a funny nickname to your bestie or using a favorite photo of your partner, Google Messages now gives you the freedom to make your contact list truly yours again.
Ready to take control of your contact list? Update your Google Messages app and start customizing today!
