Google Messages missing “Read” signs in some chats

Lately, people using Google Messages have spotted a problem: the “read receipt” feature for RCS chats isn’t working right. This has been happening over the past week, and it’s leaving users wondering if their messages are being seen.

Here’s how it usually works when you send an RCS message: First, you see a little timer showing it’s sending. Then, a single checkmark pops up when it’s sent. After that, a double checkmark means it’s delivered. Finally, a colored double checkmark—or “filled bubbles”—tells you the other person has read it. But now, that last step isn’t showing up. Even in busy chats with lots of back-and-forth, the bubbles stay empty, making it look like no one’s reading your texts.

This glitch is hitting both the regular app (version 20250131_02_RC00) and the beta version. People haven’t messed with their settings—like the “Send read receipts” option in RCS chats—and flipping that switch off and on doesn’t fix it. For some, this only happens in certain conversations, not all of them. It’s also affecting both the classic double-bubble look and a newer single-circle design that hasn’t fully rolled out yet.

The trouble started recently, and it seems to be a big deal for lots of users. Without that “read” sign, it’s hard to tell if someone’s seen your message or just hasn’t gotten to it. It’s not clear why this is happening, but it’s throwing a wrench in how people use Google Messages to stay connected. If you’re seeing this too, you’re not alone. For now, it looks like we’ll have to wait for Google to sort it out. Until then, those empty bubbles might keep you guessing about who’s keeping up with the chat!