Google Messages testing a warning about losing features when logging out or switching accounts

If you're a Google Messages user with multiple Google accounts linked to your Android phone, you've probably noticed how seamless account switching is currently in the app. However, switching accounts or choosing to use Google Messages without a Google account may cause unexpected limitations. Google seems ready to fix this problem with a new warning that appears when you want to abandon the Google account login. Google Messages is rolling out a new feature in beta that clearly outlines the features you'll lose when you sign out of your account or switch accounts. to another Google account in the app. If you sign out of your Google account entirely, you'll be notified that you'll lose access to features like Magic Compose (those helpful AI writing suggestions) and device pairing (linking your phone to apps). Chromebooks or other desktop devices for seamless messaging).

If Google's profile discovery feature is enabled, you will be prompted to disable it. This prevents others from seeing your profile picture and name in Google products, but it also means that people who know your phone number might not easily connect with you on various Google services.

If you switch between accounts, you will also receive a similar warning. Magic Compose and device pairing will also become unavailable, as these features are tied to your specific Google account. These two warnings were spotted by @Assembledebug from TheSPAndroid during its usual search for new features.

Source: TheSPAndroid

Previously, Google Messages did not explicitly display the potential downsides of using the app without an associated account. However, adding this notification greatly improves transparency, allowing users to make informed choices about how they interact with Google Messages, as there is no complete need to link the app to a Google account. The feature appears to be rolling out gradually for those using the latest Google Messages beta, which is currently v.20240321_01_RC00.