9 Tips to Get More Out of Google Chat

Google Chat often goes unnoticed, but it’s a feature-packed messaging app with seamless integration into other Google services. These tips work on the web, Android, and iOS.

Create Your Own Spaces

Spaces are like supercharged group chats: they can have names, descriptions, and task assignment capabilities. File sharing is easier in Spaces. To create one on the web, click 'New chat', then 'Create a space'. Give it a name and an optional emoji. You’ll immediately see buttons for inviting members, sharing files, and assigning tasks.

Thread Your Chats

Google Chat supports threaded messages, allowing you to spin off separate topics without disrupting the main conversation. Hover over a message (web) or long-press (mobile) to find the option to reply in a new thread.

Pin Important Conversations

To keep important chats from getting lost, you can pin them to the top of the list. On the web, click the three dots next to a chat and select 'Pin'. On mobile, press and hold a chat in the messages view.

Organize Conversations Into Sections

Sections work like email folders to organize chats—for example, by friends, family, or work. On the web, click the three dots next to a chat, choose 'Move conversation', and select an existing section or create a new one. On mobile, sections can only be viewed.

Schedule Messages for the Future

The web version includes built-in message scheduling. Write your message, click the small downward arrow next to the send button, and pick a specific date and time. Messages can be scheduled up to 120 days in advance.

Use Google Chat With Other Google Apps

Easily attach links from Google Calendar or files from Google Drive. You can also create a Google Tasks task from a message via the three-dot menu. The 'Forward to inbox' option sends the message (along with surrounding messages) to your Gmail inbox as a formatted email.

Set Your Status

Let others know your availability. On the web, click the status indicator in the top-right corner. On mobile, tap the menu button (top-left), then 'Add a status' or the arrow.

Edit Sent Messages

Hover over a message (web) or long-press (mobile) to see the edit option (pen icon). Changes are visible to other participants.

Protect Your Privacy

Restrict who can contact you. On the web, click the gear icon, then 'Access restrictions'. On mobile, go to 'Settings' and configure 'Who can message you?' and 'Who can invite you to Spaces?'.