Android Messages has evolved into a capable platform with tools that go beyond simple texting. From customizing notifications to scheduling messages and managing clutter automatically, this article highlights 10 built-in features that can significantly improve your messaging experience.

Custom notifications for important contacts

Assigning unique notification sounds and icons to key contacts helps distinguish critical messages. To enable this, open a conversation, tap the meatballs menu (three dots) > Details > Notifications, and customize the tone and icon. This ensures you never overlook messages from important people while minimizing distractions from others.

Snooze notifications

Interruptions are rarely a welcome thing, even when the messages are important. Android lets you temporarily silence a message notification by swiping it down and tapping the clock icon to snooze it for a set period. Whether you’re in a meeting or just need time to focus, snoozing notifications helps you stay on top of things without being distracted. After the set time period, the notification will resurface and remind you to respond so you never miss an important message.

Calendar integration with recognized times

When a message includes a date or time, Android often highlights it automatically, and tapping on that underlined text opens your calendar with the event details ready to save. It’s a time-saving feature that supports better planning, ideal for scheduling meetings, reminders, or appointments directly from your messages without switching apps.

Schedule send

Use the scheduling function to plan texts in advance — perfect for situations where you don’t want to send an off hours message. After typing a message, tap and hold the send icon to access Schedule send. Choose from preset options or set a custom time to send your message later.

Starred messages for quick reference

Important messages often get buried in long conversations. Android makes it easy to mark key information, such as addresses, instructions, or confirmation numbers, by starring them. Just long-press the message and tap the star icon. If you need to refer back to these messages, simply tap the three dots in the top right corner and select Starred messages to quickly access them.

Smart search within conversations

The search function in Android Messages allows users to find specific words, contacts, or shared media across conversations. Simply tap the search bar, enter the contact of interest to bring up all correspondence with that person, and type the keyword or phrase you’re looking for within the conversation. This feature is especially useful for finding important information buried in long message threads.

Custom colors for conversations

Color-coding message threads adds more than just visual appeal. Assigning specific colors to frequent or important conversations helps you quickly identify them, which is useful when juggling both personal and work-related communications, especially if you handle them all on one device. To change a thread’s color, open the conversation and go to three dots then select Change color. This small visual cue enhances navigation through a crowded inbox.

Swipe actions

Android lets you define what happens when you swipe left or right on a conversation thread. Head to Messages > Settings > General > Swipe Actions and assign actions like delete, archive, or mark as read. Tailoring these gestures helps you handle messages faster and keep your inbox clean with minimal friction.

Auto-delete OTPs (one-time passwords)

To keep your inbox clear of expired OTPs, some Android devices allow automatic deletion after a set time. On supported phones (such as Pixel or Samsung), go to Messages > Message Organization > Auto-delete OTPs. When enabled, temporary messages like verification codes are removed after a set period, helping you stay organized and secure.

Previews for sent media and links

Verifying what you’ve sent is easier when visual feedback is built in. Android Messages displays previews of images, videos, and links within your own chat view. This immediate confirmation can prevent mistakes, such as sending the wrong file or URL, before the recipient even opens the message.

If you’re looking to get even more out of your Android device or want tailored tips for your specific setup, we’re here to help. Contact us now for practical guidance, app recommendations, or additional messaging tricks that fit your workflow.