First Look: Custom Wallpapers in Google Messages

Google Messages is taking a significant step toward more personalized conversations. After weeks of behind-the-scenes development, the app appears ready to roll out custom chat themes, giving users far greater control over the look and feel of their messaging experience.

For over a month, we’ve been tracking Google’s efforts to introduce customizable backgrounds for individual chats. Now, with the latest beta version (messages.android2026052300RC00.phone.openbetadynamic), those features look poised to go live. Once the changes are activated, the familiar “Change colors” option in the chat overflow menu will be replaced by a new entry called “Chat themes.”

This upgrade doesn’t just let you pick a color palette. You’ll also be able to choose from several galleries of pre-made wallpapers or select a photo from your own device. If you decide you don’t like your new look, a reset button will instantly revert to the default appearance.

That said, early testing reveals a potential hiccup. Dark backgrounds can make text near the top of the chat harder to read. It’s a small but noticeable issue Google may want to refine before the feature reaches a wider audience.

The timing is notable. With Samsung Messages winding down, many users who valued custom backgrounds in that app may find Google Messages a more welcoming alternative. This update could help ease that transition by offering a similar level of personalization.

Google could enable the feature for beta testers at any moment, if it hasn’t already. So keep an eye on your app , your chats may soon get a whole new look.