Google is adding end-to-end encryption for group chats in its Messages app. Group chats are completely secure from eavesdropping by both Google and any other third parties.

The content of group conversations, including text, files, and media, will be secured during transit between devices. By using encryption, the information is changed into an unintelligible code. In order to read this content, both your device and the devices receiving the message need to have access to a secret key. The procedure guarantees that only the participants in a group chat may read its contents.

Right present, Messages’ beta version supports encrypted group chats. In order to use this function, you must first sign up to be a beta tester for the app. Google’s end-to-end encryption for group chats is expected to be made available to a wider audience soon.

Google’s efforts to safeguard Messages discussions stretch back to 2020, when the company introduced end-to-end encryption for individual chats. You’ll need to have chat features enabled in the Messaging app so that you can use the function, as it operates using Google’s RCS (Rich Communication Services) protocol. A normal SMS or MMS communication is not encrypted.

In group conversations, a banner with a lock icon will appear once the functionality is activated, and a lock icon will appear next to the send button.

Google also announced that users of its Messages app will soon be able to respond to RCS messages with any emoji.