Google has begun to roll-out its new worldwide Chat messaging service, replacing Android SMS text messages.

Chat will be integrated with the default messages app on Android phones, with its new features including group texts, videos, typing indicators and read receipts.

However, the new messaging service doesn’t offer encrypted messages and mobile operators will have to choose whether or not to enable the service.

‘Feature-rich mobile messaging’

Google has tried many times to launch its own feature-rich mobile messaging app but has failed to win over its audience.

This is because of Google’s rivals Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp featuring high-resolution pictures and typing indicators.

This gave Google the incentive to integrate its new messaging standard with Android’s operating system.

‘Advanced features’

Android users will be able to take advantage of the “advanced features” when messaging other Android users as soon as it’s rolled out around the globe.

The company believes the functionality to be widely available on Android phones within the next two years.

More than 50 mobile networks have also been working to develop Chat, including Vodafone, T-Mobile and Verizon, as well as manufacturers such as Samsung, LG and Huawei.

Written by Leah Alger