To change message color on Android, open the Google Messages app, enter a conversation, tap the three-dot menu or the contact or group name, then select "Change colors" and pick your preferred color. This per-conversation feature is the only documented built-in method for changing message color on Android.
How to change message color on Android with Google Messages
Google Messages includes a documented conversation appearance option that lets you change the color of individual chat bubbles and themes. Follow these steps:
- Open the Google Messages app on your Android device.
- Open the chat for which you want to change the color.
- Tap the three-dot menu (More) or tap the contact name or group name at the top of the conversation.
- Select "Change colors" from the menu.
- Choose a color or theme from the available options.
- Tap "Confirm" to apply the change.
This setting applies only to the specific conversation you are in. Google's help page documents separate paths for individual contacts and group chats, but the process is the same for both. If you are using your phone's built-in text messaging app instead of Google Messages, the path may differ: open the app, tap the three-dot menu, then Settings, then look for an Appearance or Theme section to find the text color option.
Can I change message colors for all chats at once?
No. The "Change colors" feature in Google Messages is per-conversation only. There is no documented carrier or system setting that applies a global message color change across all chats.
Using third-party apps to customize message colors
If you want more control over message colors, including per-contact colors, you can use a third-party SMS app from the Google Play Store. Search for messaging apps that offer advanced customization options, read reviews, and choose one that fits your preferences. After installing the app, open its settings or customization menu to find options for changing message colors, bubble styles, and themes. Some third-party apps allow you to set different colors for individual contacts, which the default Google Messages app does not offer. Apps with per-contact color customization include Textra, Go SMS Pro, and Mood Messenger.
What about changing message color on an iPhone?
Messages uses fixed colors, and the only documented customization options are message effects, such as bubble effects that appear when you touch and hold the send button. For more details, see the sibling article on changing iMessage color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the message color for a group chat in Google Messages?
Yes. Open the group chat, tap the group name at the top, select "Change colors," and choose a color or theme. The process is the same as for individual chats.
Will changing the message color affect how my messages look on the recipient's phone?
No. Changing the message color only affects how the conversation appears on your own device. The recipient will see their default colors regardless of your settings.
Do I need a specific Android version or phone model to use Google Messages color customization?
The requirement is that the chat must be a Google Messages conversation with chat customization available.
Can I change the message color for all chats at once using a third-party app?
Some third-party messaging apps offer global theme settings that apply a single color scheme to all conversations, but this varies by app. Check the app's customization options to see if a global setting is available.
Is there a way to change the message color without using Google Messages or a third-party app?
No. There is no system-wide or carrier-provided setting that changes message colors globally.
Can I change the message color for specific contacts on my Android phone?
The default messaging app does not support per-contact message colors, but third-party apps like Textra or Go SMS Pro may offer this feature.
For the wider topic, see adjusting brightness and display color.
Related reading: How To React To Texts On Android and How To Unsend A Text On Android.
