Google Messages starts rolling out ‘Tap to Draft’ for Smart Replies

As we previously spotted, Google Messages is adding a new “Tap to Draft” behavior that saves you from accidental Smart Replies.

Going to Messages Settings > Suggestions reveals a new preference beneath Smart Reply. The description to the left of the toggle is the current behavior. (It would benefit from a clearer settings interface.)

• Tap to Send: Tap Smart Replies to instantly send a message
• Tap to Draft: Tap Smart Replies to update your message draft

The default setting is still “Tap to Send” with this initial rollout. The new “Tap to Draft” places the suggestion in the text field for you to further edit before sending. It adds a good second step to avoid accidental sends. 

We’re seeing Tap to Draft with beta version 20260303_00_RC00 of Google Messages. It’s not yet in the stable channel.

More on Google Messages:

• Find Hub adds Google Messages integration, lost luggage sharing with airlines
• Scam Detection comes to Samsung’s S26 Phone app as Google Messages gets Gemini boost
• Google Messages Details page brings back edit history

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