Disable the Camera in Google Messages’ New Gallery Redesign

The latest Google Messages update introduces a redesigned Gallery interface, forcing users into a fullscreen view with an integrated camera viewfinder when selecting images. While there’s no direct way to revert to the previous design, disabling the camera permission offers a workaround for those who prefer a cleaner experience.

How to Disable the Google Messages Camera

If you find the integrated camera in the Google Messages gallery intrusive, especially if you rarely use its custom features like face filters, you can disable it by revoking the app’s camera permission. This isn’t a user preference setting within the app itself, but rather a system-level adjustment.

1. Navigate to the App info page for Google Messages. On Pixel devices, long-press the app icon on your home screen and tap the info button.
2. Select “Permissions” then choose “Camera”.
3. Change the permission from “Allow only while using the app” to “Don’t allow”. Android will display a warning message stating that some basic features may no longer function as intended. Tap “Don’t allow anyway” to proceed. You can reverse this change at any time by re-enabling the permission.
   • Note: Disabling camera permissions will impact QR code scanning functionality if you use Google Messages on the web. You’ll need
     

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