Google Messages removes handy unsubscribe feature

Google Messages recently introduced a simple way for users to stop unwanted automated texts with an "unsubscribe" button. This feature was a hit, making it easy to block promotional messages from businesses. However, for users in the US and Spain, Google has quietly removed this option from certain chats, leaving many frustrated.

The unsubscribe button lets users quickly opt out of non-essential texts, like marketing messages, without digging through settings or contacting businesses directly. It was part of Google’s effort to reduce spam in Messages, especially for RCS (Rich Communication Services) chats, which businesses often use for promotions. The feature also allowed users to report spam, helping Google identify and block unwanted senders.

Now, with the button gone for some users, users must manually block numbers or reply with commands like “STOP” to end subscriptions. This change, spotted in the Google Messages app version 20250524, has sparked complaints, as it makes managing spam less convenient.

The exact reason for removing the feature isn’t clear, but some believe Google may be tweaking it based on user feedback or business needs. For now, users in affected regions can still block numbers through the app’s settings or report spam directly, but it’s a clunkier process. Hopefully, Google will bring back the unsubscribe button or offer a better solution soon to keep Messages user-friendly and spam-free.