I'm not totally sure. I thought they were referring to the google text app if Verizon responded and said it was a google issue. I could be totally incorrect though
Ah. So people who are not seeing the little red number are on the Google Message app, not Verizon's? Sorry, I did not realize that. Thanks for clearing that up.
When using Verizon Messenger + I had a counter - BUT - that was on a Z Force Droid. I've never had the counter using Google Messenger - blue icon on either the Z Force or Pixel.
I have the Pixel and do not get the notification number with either Google messaging or Verizon Message+. It's driving me nuts. I hope Google adds this in a future update.