Google Messages, which now comes as the default SMS app on most smartphones, has implemented a feature called RCS (Rich Communication Services) that makes it more akin to WhatsApp and iMessage. RCS offers users features such as real-time typing indications and read receipts. However, this feature has also opened the door for spammy ads invading your messages. This article will guide you on how to effectively block these unwanted advertisements within Google Messages.
What is RCS?
RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a messaging protocol that enhances traditional SMS by offering features such as read receipts, group chats, and real-time typing notifications similar to WhatsApp and iMessage. However, businesses have started exploiting this feature by sending spam advertisements.
Block the contacts and conversations
For some companies sending advertisements via RCS messages, you may be able to unsubscribe from their ads directly in the chat itself. If an unsubscribe option is not available, you can block them by following these steps:
- Open the business contact info in Google Messages.
- Go to the “Options” tab.
- Select “Block & Report Spam.”
Another method is to long-press a conversation in your Google Messages inbox, tap the three-dot overflow menu, and choose “Block.” This helps block spam from unverified sources and random numbers.
Disable RCS features in Google Messages
Choose not to receive any RCS-based ads by disabling them in your settings:
- Open Google Messages.
- Tap the three-dot overflow menu icon and select Settings > Chat features.
- Toggle the “Enable chat features” option off.
- Tap “Turn off” in the pop-up box to confirm.
By doing so, you will lose some of the core RCS functionalities such as read receipts, typing indicators, and end-to-end encryption; however, standard SMS services will continue to work as usual.
Use a different default messaging app
Another effective solution is to switch to a different messaging app for your device. Apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Signal, and many others offer RCS-like features without the spammy advertisements associated with Google Messages. Some alternative options include:
- SMS Organizer
- Telegram
- Viber
- GroupMe
Switching to one of these apps may help you avoid the increasing RCS spam in Google Messages and mitigate issues related to privacy and security.
By following the methods outlined in this article, you can effectively prevent spammy ads from invading your Google Messages and take control of your messaging experience.