The Google Messages app is one of the most popular messaging clients used on Android smartphones. Known for its simplicity, integration with RCS (Rich Communication Services), and seamless syncing with wearable devices and desktop platforms, the app is generally reliable. However, users have recently reported an odd issue with the app displaying two identical icons on their home screens or app drawers—prompting confusion and speculation about what’s causing this bug.
TL;DR: Some Android users have noticed two identical Google Messages icons appearing on their phone’s home screen or app drawer. This “dual icon” issue is most often linked to system-level changes or app cloning features. Although it doesn’t directly affect messaging functionality, it’s a visual and organizational nuisance. Temporary workarounds exist, but an official fix is likely coming with future updates to Google Messages or Android OS.
Understanding the Dual Icon Issue
In recent months, users across various forums and social media platforms have reported the appearance of duplicate Google Messages icons. These duplicates are commonly identical in every way—logo, app name, and even the behavior when tapped—leading users to suspect malware, hidden cloned apps, or system bugs. But what is actually causing this problem?
Common Causes
The “dual icon” problem isn’t strictly a bug within Google Messages itself, but rather the result of interactions between the app and Android’s system-level features.
- App Cloning: Some device manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus offer native support for app cloning. This allows users to duplicate apps for dual accounts—commonly used in messaging apps like WhatsApp. Sometimes, Google Messages may be mistakenly cloned or auto-cloned, leading to two identical icons.
- Multiple User Profiles: Android supports adding multiple users or guest accounts. Apps duplicated across profiles may result in two icons appearing on one interface due to mismanagement of user contexts.
- Launcher Glitch: Custom Android launchers or even Google’s Pixel Launcher can introduce bugs where an app appears twice due to cache corruption or display glitches.
- Shortcut Misconfiguration: Creating a shortcut to the Messages app from within system settings or third-party app managers can sometimes register as a second app icon, especially after updates or reboots.
Is It Malware?
One of the first concerns users have upon seeing an unexpected second icon is whether malware is involved. Thankfully, this bug is generally not associated with any kind of malware or malicious activity. The duplicate icons do not indicate that your phone is compromised.
However, it’s always smart to check:
- Review your installed apps in Settings > Apps.
- Run a scan using Google Play Protect or a trusted antivirus app.
- Check app permissions to ensure there are no rogue background services running.
How It Affects Functionality
The good news is that the issue is purely visual. In nearly every reported case, both icons lead to the exact same app instance—Google Messages. There is no data duplication, no separate message databases, and no system errors when sending or receiving text messages.
Still, many users find it frustrating when trying to organize their home screens, particularly because deleting one icon may inadvertently remove both if they are treated as linked shortcuts.
Manufacturer-Specific Triggers
This bug seems to be more frequently reported on devices from certain brands, namely:
- Samsung: The use of “Dual Messenger” or secure folder functionalities may cause unexpected duplication of Messaging apps.
- Xiaomi: MIUI’s own app cloning system has previously introduced dual icon glitches, particularly after system updates.
- OnePlus: Clone Apps feature has also historically conflicted with Google apps during firmware upgrades.
Interestingly, users on Google Pixel devices also started noticing this issue post software updates, indicating that it may not be limited to OEM modifications, but perhaps tied to certain Android versions or Messages app builds.
Potential Solutions and Workarounds
Until an official patch is released, users can try several methods to resolve or hide the second icon:
- Clear Launcher Cache: Go to Settings > Apps, select your launcher (e.g., Pixel Launcher), and clear its cache and data.
- Uninstall Updates: If the issue began after an update, go to the Google Messages app in Settings and uninstall updates to restore the previous version.
- Disable Clone Features: Navigate to settings for “App Cloner”, “Dual Messenger”, or equivalent and ensure Google Messages hasn’t been set up with that feature.
- Create a New Shortcut Manually: Delete both icons, then add the app back from the app drawer correctly.
- Reset Home Screen Layout: Sometimes a full reset of the home screen can remove duplicate or phantom icons.
Google’s Acknowledgement and Updates
Google has acknowledged isolated reports of this glitch via community forums, but no sweeping statement or patch has been released at the time of writing. The bug may be addressed in upcoming versions of Google Messages or Android system updates.
Staying up to date with the latest stable builds of Google Messages and Android is recommended to mitigate these issues. Joining the Google Messages beta program may also introduce early fixes, though it comes with the risk of new bugs.
FAQ: Google Messages Dual Icon Bug
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What causes two Google Messages icons to appear on my phone?
This can be due to app cloning features, launcher glitches, system updates, or duplicate shortcuts accidentally being added. -
Is this a security issue?
No, there is no evidence to suggest this bug is related to malware or any form of intrusion. It’s mostly cosmetic. -
Can I safely delete one of the icons?
Yes, but be cautious. If both icons are treated as shortcuts, deleting one might remove the only working access to the app. Always ensure the app is still in your drawer before removing icons from the home screen. -
Will uninstalling and reinstalling the app fix the problem?
Sometimes it helps, especially if the glitch is due to a recent update. Keep in mind that uninstalling may delete unsaved settings or message backups unless synced to Google Account. -
How can I report this bug to Google?
Use the “Send feedback” option inside the Google Messages app, typically found in the settings menu.
In conclusion, while the dual icon issue within Google Messages might not affect your daily use of the app, it highlights the complexity of Android’s app management landscape. As Google continues to unify app behavior across versions and devices, users can expect a more consistent experience—and hopefully fewer phantom icons.
