Google Messages is no longer just a standard SMS application. With the integration of Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, Android users can choose between sending traditional SMS/MMS messages or interacting with an AI-powered chat, all within the same app.
The key difference lies in internet connectivity. Gemini requires an active internet connection because all AI processing is handled on Google’s servers. When mobile data or Wi-Fi is turned off, Gemini cannot respond, and Google Messages will prompt users to either enable data or send the message as a regular text.
The “Send as text (SMS/MMS)” option indicates that the message will be delivered as a traditional SMS using the mobile carrier network. This mode works without internet access and does not involve any AI features, functioning exactly like standard SMS messaging.
This dual approach gives users full flexibility. When internet access is available, Gemini can assist with drafting messages, generating ideas, or quick discussions. When internet access is unavailable, Google Messages continues to operate as a reliable SMS app, ensuring communication remains uninterrupted.
Source: Google