Google began widely rolling out the SMS categorization feature in the Messages app in an experimental capacity late last year shortly after testing that capability. It automatically organizes messages into various categories including Personal, Transactions, OTPs, offers, and more depending on their content.
Soon, that feature will arrive for users in India. Google announced today that it's rolling out SMS categorization in that country over the coming weeks.
The feature works to identify content in messages that arrive in your inbox. For example, your bank transactions and bills will be sorted into the Transactions tab and one-time passwords into OTPs. Google also recently teased the ability to mark an important message in Messages with a star, expanding how you organize SMS.
Google noted that the process of message categorization occurs on your device to make sure your privacy is protected. Categorized messages are also available even if your device is not connected to the internet.
Another update coming to Messages is the option to automatically remove your one-time passwords 24 hours after receiving them to rid your inbox of clutter. You'll see a prompt that will ask you if you wish to auto-delete an OTP and you'll only need to tap "Continue". Otherwise, you can tap "No thanks" to opt out.
These features will be available in English on Android phones running Android 8 or later. Keep in mind that you'll need to update the app to the latest version to access the new capabilities when they go live.
3 Comments - Add comment