This article explains how to set up and use Google Messages on a PC. It also covers how the features differ between the mobile and web app and how to unpair the devices to hide your conversations.

How to Use Google Messages for Web

All you need is a web browser and the Google Messages mobile app. Here’s how to pair the two so that you can send texts from your computer.

1. Open Google Messages for Web on your computer. You should see a QR code; choose Pair with QR code if you don’t see one.

   Select the toggle next to Remember this computer if you want easy access to Google Messages on this PC in the future without having to follow all these steps again.

2. Open Messages on your phone and tap your profile photo in the corner.

3. Tap Device pairing.

4. Tap QR code scanner. If you don’t see that option, choose Switch to QR pairing first.

5. Point your phone’s camera at the QR code on the computer. The capture happens automatically, so you don’t need to actually take a picture.

6. Google Messages for Web opens with all your existing conversations.

   Open one to read and respond to the same texts that are your phone. All your phone’s contacts are available, too, so you can also start new conversations.

Features Available in Google Messages for Web

When you use Google Messages on a PC, you get some of the same features found in the mobile app, but there are also lots of differences. Here’s what you can do with the web version:

• Send, read, and copy texts
• Send emojis, stickers, GIFs, and files
• React and reply to specific texts within a conversation
• Archive and mute conversations
• Mark messages as unread
• Change the theme
• Receive notifications (alerts and audio)
• Control RCS features like read receipts
• Use keyboard shortcuts to get around quickly

You can see that all your basic texting needs are covered. This is a great alternative to using your phone’s small screen and keyboard.

However, there are several features available in the mobile app that are missing from Google Messages for Web. Here are some things you can do in the mobile app that you can’t do in the web app:

• Send files from your phone
• Send contacts, location details, and voice recordings
• Use Magic Compose
• Make a selfie GIF
• Star and forward conversations
• Pin conversations
• Block and report spam

How to Log Out of Google Messages for Web

Leaving yourself logged in to Google Messages on a PC can expose all your private conversations to whoever uses the computer next. Fortunately, it’s easy to sign out of Google Messages for Web.

To log out from the computer, select the three dots above the list of chats, and then choose Unpair. If you’re on your phone, return to the Device pairing screen and tap Unpair all devices.