SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.
Send a text message
Send a text using Google Messages.
Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.
STEP 1 OF 6
Start a message
Tap the speech-bubble button near the bottom right. It may also say Start chat.

Use the speech bubble below the star-shaped Gemini button.
Prefer to see all the steps together?+
STEP 1
Start a message
Tap the speech-bubble button near the bottom right. It may also say Start chat.
Use the speech bubble below the star-shaped Gemini button.

STEP 2
Find the person
Tap To and type their name or mobile number.
Use the name or number of your own recipient.

STEP 3
Choose the contact
Check the mobile number, then tap the matching person.
Sarah Smith is an example contact.

STEP 4
Write your message
Tap Text message and type what you want to say.
The person’s name appears at the top.

STEP 5
Check and send
Check the recipient and your words. Tap the arrow beside your message.
The arrow appears after you enter some text.

STEP 6
Check the result
Your message should appear in the conversation. Look for any sending error.
A message bubble alone does not prove the person has read it.

IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT
A little help along the way.
Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.
I cannot find that option+
Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.
I need to go back a step+
Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.
Are these pictures of my device?+
They are example screens showing exactly where to tap. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.