Samsung shared “Notice of End of Service” for the Messages app in the U.S. Google Messages, set for July 2026, is the intended replacement, and Samsung offers a routed switch. it’s been a long time coming.
After stopping the Samsung Messages app, you will no longer be able to send messages through Samsung Messages on your phone, except for emergency numbers or emergency contacts defined on your device.
The app will not be available for download on the Galaxy Store after July. Galaxy S26 users are already prevented from downloading Samsung Messages.
This notice is for Galaxy users on Android 12 and up was discovered today on Samsung’s US website. Older devices are “not affected by this End of Service.”
Samsung Messages will redirect users to Google Messages with an in-app notification and on-screen instructions. On Android 14+, the Google Messages icon will “automatically move to your home screen dock” after the switch.
- Open or download Google Messages. When you open the app for the first time, a message appears: “Make it your default SMS app to use messages.”
- Click the “Set Default SMS App” button.
- Select Google Messages. Google Messages is a white icon with a blue chat bubble.
- Click on “Set as default”.
- Google Messages is now your default messaging app.
Samsung Messages is also being discontinued on Tizen OS watches, with users no longer “able to see the full message conversation history on their watch.”
“…but these watches will allow the user to read and send text messages.”
Additionally:
Changing messaging apps for Samsung devices released before 2022 may temporarily disrupt ongoing RCS negotiations. However, RCS conversations can continue if both parties switch to Google Messages. MMS/SMS messaging will be available during this time.
Samsung highlights “improvements” in Google Messages:
Strong Security: “AI-powered fraud detection and powerful spam filters identify and block suspicious texts to help keep your inbox clean and your personal information safer.”
RCS Messaging: “With RCS enabled on Android and iOS, you and your friends can share high-quality photos and videos, enhance your group chats, view real-time typing metrics, and more.”
Expressive AI Features: “Access powerful Gemini features to bring AI-powered expressiveness to your conversations, including remixed photos and smart replies.”
Multi Device Connection: “Swap conversations seamlessly between your phone, tablet or smartwatch.”
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