Google Messages users might soon have a bit less control over how they text individual contacts. Code spotted in the latest open beta build of the app suggests that Google is laying the groundwork to remove the toggle that lets you disable Rich Communication Services (RCS) on a chat-by-chat basis.
Right now, if a specific conversation gets glitchy or starts filling up with promotional spam, you can simply open that contact’s info screen and flip a switch labeled “Only send SMS and MMS messages.” That forces Google Messages to fall back to classic texting just for that person while keeping typing indicators, high-res photos, and read receipts active for everyone else.
Code strings reveal an all-or-nothing approach
The latest findings arise from an APK teardown performed by Android Authority on beta version 20261002. The report suggests Google is preparing in-app banner notifications to warn users before the individual toggle disappears completely. Once the update goes live, your choices for avoiding RCS will be much more rigid.
Instead of tweaking settings for specific friends or family members, you will essentially face an all-or-nothing decision. You will either have to disable RCS across your entire app for every single contact or leave it enabled everywhere and rely on the automatic fallback feature that only sends an SMS when an RCS message fails to deliver.
Why removing the switch frustrates users
RCS has definitely upgraded Android texting with modern features like cross-platform chats with iPhone users. Still, the protocol isn’t without its headaches. In-app spam from businesses and occasional delivery delays lead many people to manually drop back to SMS for specific numbers.
Google hasn’t officially announced a timeline for flipping the switch. However, the presence of warning banners in beta code means the change could roll out in an upcoming server-side update. So, it shouldn’t take long to see the change on your app.
