Google Messages Adds a New Step for Dual-SIM Users

Google Messages is tweaking the way texting works for dual-SIM users, and it’s not exactly the change anyone asked for. The app is introducing an extra step for selecting which SIM to use when messaging individual contacts—a move that might frustrate some users who value convenience.

What’s Changing?

Currently, Google Messages makes it easy to switch between SIMs while texting. You can simply tap the SIM swap icon in the compose box to choose which SIM to use, and the app remembers your selection for that contact in future conversations. It’s quick, intuitive, and perfect for users who frequently switch SIMs.

However, in the latest beta version of Google Messages (20250209_01_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic), the SIM swap icon has been removed. Instead, the setting for selecting a SIM has been relocated to the profile or conversation details section. This means you now need to navigate to a different menu to make the change for individual conversations. According to screenshots, the update applies only to specific chats and not to the app as a whole.

The Impact of This Change

While this might seem like a minor UI adjustment, it adds an extra step for dual-SIM users who frequently switch SIMs while messaging. Instead of the convenient icon in the message composition section, users will now see a prompt like “Sending with (XYZ SIM name)” when texting.

You can still set a default SIM for all messages by heading to Settings > Network & Internet > Calls & SMS > SMS, but if you prefer not to use a default and want to pick a SIM for each conversation, the process is now less straightforward.

Why This Matters

For dual-SIM users, the ease of quickly swapping SIMs is a key feature, especially for those managing personal and professional lines. Relocating this function to a less accessible place could make everyday messaging a bit more cumbersome.

What do you think of this change? Is it a minor inconvenience, or does it affect how you use Google Messages? Let us know in the comments! For more updates, app teardowns, leaks, and exclusive tech insights, stay tuned to Authority Insights.