Google is rolling out QR code-based verification in Messages beta

Google is introducing an enhanced method to confirm you are replying to the intended contact in Messages beta. It replaces the previous method of verifying a secure encryption with a contact by comparing an 80-digit code. 

The new QR code-based method makes verification a little simpler. Now you can ask the contact to scan your QR code and vice versa. The feature is currently rolling out to the Messages beta app and is available on devices running Android 9 and above. 

As spotted by 9to5Google, To access the new feature, you will need to sign up for Google's beta program. You can do so by visiting the Google Messages app listing on the Play Store, scrolling down, and tapping on the "Join" button in the section labeled "Become a beta tester."

Once you are signed up, you should see a new update for your Messages app. To use the feature, open the contact details page by tapping on a conversation and then the name of your contact. Scroll down to the end-to-end encryption card and tap on "Verify encryption." 

This will open a new "Security and privacy" tab with an option to "Verify keys for this contact." Tapping on it will give you an option "Scan the QR code," and vice versa. Google is eyeing a global rollout sometime in 2025, and it will also support third-party messaging apps once it's released.