In the last few months, Google Chat has experienced significant changes, beginning with a redesigned logo in December. The mobile app have also undergone various design updates in recent months. Google Chat is actively working on incorporating features like voice messages, a common feature in many messaging apps. Another addition to the list of features is participant avatars for unread group chats (spaces).
The addition of participant avatars for unread group chats in Google Chat is a significant development for the platform, especially in comparison to popular collaborative communication tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams. However, it remains unclear from Google’s blog post whether this feature will provide a consistent view of participant avatars even after the thread has been read, a functionality present in some competing platforms like Slack.
Participants Avatar in Google Chat Groups, how will it Affect Users? 
This new feature in Google Chat, displaying participant avatars for unread group chats, is a valuable addition for users dealing with large teams or numerous threads. It facilitates quick identification of relevant threads to read, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the availability of this feature across various platforms, including the web, Android, and iOS, ensures a consistent and accessible experience for Chat users across different devices.
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Google has made it easy for users to access the new feature of displaying participant avatars for unread group chats in Google Chat. There are no account-based restrictions or admin settings required to enable this feature. The gradual roll-out will begin over the next few weeks, ensuring that all users, regardless of their Workspace tier or account type, will eventually have access to it. This inclusivity extends to free or personal Google account holders, who will also be able to view avatars for unread threads in spaces.
Conclusion 
The recent addition of participant avatars for unread group chats in Google Chat is a useful enhancement, making it easier for users to manage and prioritize their conversations. However, it comes after a redesign in January that received mixed reviews, particularly for changes like relocating the Mentions tab inside a three-dot menu. Despite these design adjustments, Google continues to refine and introduce features to enhance the user experience on its Chat platform.
