I have been using messenger+ from verizon for years and decided to try this app. I immediately went back to Verizon's product because i am able to customize the background for the global background as well as individual contacts. While google messenger may turn out to be a superior product "under the hood", it presents as flat, ugly, and bereft of personality. In case you're wondering, i am currently using a pixel 3a and will soon move to a pixel 6pro.