Google Messages is rolling out a long-requested feature that allows users to copy only a selected portion of a text message. The update is currently available in the beta branch. It has been confirmed on version v20260306 of the app. The feature was first spotted in development last month. Currently, it is reaching some users. Though not all devices are receiving it simultaneously, indicating a staged rollout.

Previously, long-pressing a message in Google Messages only offered a full copy option. This was inconvenient for longer messages containing specific details. Specifically, for OTPs, links, or addresses, users had to copy the entire message into a separate app and manually select the required text. It was an unnecessary extra step for a basic task.

How does the new feature work?

Users can long-press a message and drag to highlight a specific section of text. Only the selected portion is then copied. The original full-copy button remains available for those who need it. The feature has been confirmed to work on a OnePlus 13R running the beta version. However, the same functionality was not visible on other devices running the identical app version, confirming that the rollout is staged.

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What can users expect?

Google Messages is the default messaging app on several Android flagship devices, making this a widely relevant update. The absence of partial text selection has been a long-standing complaint among users.

The update is currently limited to the beta branch. A wider rollout to stable users has not been announced yet. Users on Google Messages beta v20260306 can check if the feature is available by long-pressing any text message on their device.