Google Messages Enhances Link Previews for Clarity

Google has implemented an update to its Messages app, enhancing link previews for websites and YouTube videos.

Preview Design Changes

The updated link previews now feature larger site titles and thumbnails. Full URLs and site descriptions are hidden, which cleans up conversation views. The general site domain is shown below each title.

Prior previews included a URL bubble with titles, descriptions, and thumbnails. The new design retains color shading, adapting to Material 3 or matching YouTube thumbnail hues.

Feature Customization

Users can view full URLs through long-pressing preview cards to copy them. Settings allow disabling previews by turning off "Show all previews" or "Show only web link previews," reverting to full link text display.

Rollout and Availability

According to Android Central, the update is in the beta version 20251121_00_RC01, with wider distribution expected soon.

Update: 30 Nov 2025