Google is improving Messages and Maps with new personalization options

Google is testing a few new features to make its apps more personal and easier to use. Two of its popular services — Google Messages and Google Maps — are getting updates that focus on customization and user convenience.

In Google Messages, a new “Account menu” is being rolled out for some users. This menu appears when you tap your profile picture in the top-right corner of the app. It shows your linked Google Account, phone number, and lets you easily switch between different accounts if you use more than one.

The layout looks cleaner and more organized, matching the design style already used in other Google apps like Gmail and Photos. This update also includes shortcuts to manage RCS chats, settings, and backups, giving users quicker control over their messaging experience.

Meanwhile, Google Maps is preparing a feature that lets drivers personalize their vehicle profile before starting navigation. This means users could soon be able to choose details like their car type, color, or other visual preferences.

While Google hasn’t shared the full list of customization options yet, this feature is expected to make the in-app driving experience feel more tailored and fun. It may also improve how the navigation system represents your car on the map during trips.

Both these changes show Google’s ongoing effort to make its apps feel more personal and consistent across devices. The updates are still being tested, so they might take some time to reach everyone, but they highlight how Google continues to refine everyday experiences — from messaging friends to getting behind the wheel.