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Google Messages widely rolls out quick capture camera icon shortcut for faster photo sharing

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By Johanna Romero

Published: Nov 22, 2023, 11:56 AM

After a recent revamp that removed the top search bar from the app, Google Messages was set to receive another UI tweak that would make it easier for users to send photos. As reported last month, this update would introduce a camera icon directly on the Messages home screen, streamlining the process of sending photos. This UI change is now rolling out widely.

Previously, sending photos using Google Messages involved either accessing the conversation and attaching the photo from the "Add" button or capturing the photo separately in the camera app and then selecting it from the conversation. Now, the easy-to-access camera icon lets you start the process of sending a photo from the beginning, if your intent is to capture and send a quick photo instead of forwarding one from the camera roll.

Google Messages widely rolls out quick capture camera icon shortcut for faster photo sharing

New photo send workflow in Google Messages by using the camera icon shortcut

As you can see in the screenshots above, the camera icon is placed adjacent to the search icon on the top right of the app. Tapping on it, opens the camera app UI and viewfinder, allowing you to capture a quick photo. Once the photo has been taken, Messages then prompts you to select a recipient and attaches the photo in a new message to the chosen recipient — while still giving you the control to add additional text and send at your leisure.

This new feature joins other experimental additions that Google Messages has been exploring, such as animated emoji, an updated voice recorder, and Google Account login capabilities for the web version. Meanwhile, as new features continue to be rolled out, old ones seem to have suddenly gone missing from the app without explanation, most likely due to a bug.

The camera shortcut was previously in a limited rollout phase, with only a small group of Google Messages users having access to it. That said, while the old method was relatively straightforward, this new shortcut strives to make the process even more effortless — facilitating seamless photo sharing.

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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.

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