Google Messages is receiving two standout updates in the September Android Drop: custom chat themes and Google Keep integration. Users can now tap the plus button to add a Keep note directly into a conversation, allowing everyone to view, edit, and contribute without leaving the chat. This feature aims to turn Messages conversations into the place where plans are actually made, whether building a grocery list or planning a vacation.

Google is also rolling out Chat themes, which lets users set different backgrounds and color treatments for individual conversations. Google has curated collections of wallpapers—including Animals, Landscapes, and Space—or users can upload their own photos from their gallery. The app automatically matches chat bubble colors to the background.

These customizations are personal and won't appear on other users' phones. Both features are rolling out now to supported devices as part of Google's September Android Drop.