Google Updates: Easier police reporting on Android Auto, RCS Ad Spam controls in Messages, and Google Photos’ “Moments” redesign

Google is rolling out several updates across its platforms to enhance user experiences. From a significant usability improvement in Android Auto to better spam control in Google Messages and a redesign in Google Photos, these changes aim to simplify and optimize their services. Let’s dive into the details.

Easier Police Reporting on Google Maps for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Google Maps has introduced a small yet impactful update to improve incident reporting on Android Auto. Previously, users had to navigate through multiple menus to report police activity, a common use case for many drivers. With the latest update:

• Streamlined Reporting Menu: The option to report police activity is now prominently placed at the top of the menu, just below critical options like crashes and traffic slowdowns.
• Simpler Terminology: The reporting option has been renamed from “Speed Traps” to a more generalized “Police,” making it easier for users to identify.
• Broad Rollout: This update is server-side, meaning there’s no need to update the Android Auto app. It’s also expected to apply to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.

This change addresses long-standing feedback, making it more convenient for users to report incidents while on the road.

Google Messages Tackles RCS Ad Spam with a New “STOP” Button

RCS (Rich Communication Services) in Google Messages has been a game-changer for Android messaging. However, in some regions, verified businesses misuse RCS to send unsolicited ads, frustrating users. Google is testing a solution to address this:

• STOP Button for Business Messages:
  • A new feature in the beta version of Google Messages (v20241125_04) introduces a prominent “STOP” button.
  • Clicking this button automatically sends the “STOP” keyword to unsubscribe from unwanted RCS Business Messages (RBM).
• How It Works:
  • Once you unsubscribe, businesses should stop sending messages. If you wish to re-subscribe, you can send the keyword “START” at any time.
  • This solution ties to your phone number, ensuring spam control even when switching devices or resetting your phone.
• Why It Matters:
  • Previously, users had to rely on blocking and reporting spam, which was cumbersome and device-dependent.
  • The STOP feature is more reliable and user-friendly.

While this feature is still in beta and may not be available to all users, you can manually type “STOP” in business chats to achieve the same result. For those overwhelmed by spam, disabling RCS altogether remains an option.

Google Photos: From “Memories” to “Moments”

Google Photos is undergoing a redesign that repositions its “Memories” feature while maintaining its functionality:

• Name and Location Update:
  • The “Memories” tab at the bottom bar is now called “Moments.”
  • It has been moved to the “Collections” tab alongside other categories like Albums, People & Pets, and Places.
• Clean Navigation:
  • With this change, the bottom navigation bar now has three tabs: Photos, Collections, and Search (or Gemini-powered “Ask”).
  • This mirrors similar navigation simplifications in Google Maps earlier this year.
• Consistency Across Platforms:
  • The update has started rolling out to iOS users with Google Photos version 7.9, and Android users can expect it soon.

The Moments view retains its scrapbook-like organization, allowing users to see their best photos, search for specific memories, and share them easily. The carousel at the top of the main photos grid will continue to use the “Memories” branding.

What These Updates Mean for Users

These updates reflect Google’s focus on user feedback and continuous improvement:

1. Better Driving Experience: Simplified police reporting in Google Maps improves safety and convenience for drivers.
2. Enhanced Messaging Control: The STOP button in Google Messages offers a much-needed solution to RCS ad spam, saving users time and hassle.
3. Streamlined Photo Organization: The Moments redesign in Google Photos makes navigation cleaner and integrates memories more seamlessly.

As these features roll out, users can look forward to a smoother, more intuitive experience across Google’s ecosystem. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available!