Google Messages will let you customize the shortcuts grid

As we wait for Chat themes to widely roll out, Google Messages is getting the ability to customize the grid of shortcuts.

In a conversation, tapping the ‘plus’ icon at the left of the text field opens up a shortcuts grid. The arrangement depends on the size of your screen.

There are currently up to 11 items: Gallery, Camera, GIFs, Stickers, Magic Compose, Files, Real-time Location, Contacts, Schedule Send, Selfie GIF, and One-time Location. The two location tiles are the latest additions/updates as part of the Find Hub integration earlier this year.

Beta version 20260731_00_RC00 of Google Messages adds the following introductory prompt: “Touch & hold a shortcut to drag it to a new spot.”

We’re seeing it live in the beta channel today, and it’s quite straightforward. Overall, it’s a bit like the previous Gboard interface. It would be nice if users could hide unused actions.