3 min learnApr 8, 2026 06:39 PM IST
Samsung is making ready to close down its long-running Messages app, marking the tip of an period for Galaxy smartphone customers. The corporate has begun notifying customers that the app will cease working someday in July, encouraging them to modify to different messaging platforms, most notably Google Messages.
For years, Samsung Messages was the default texting app on Galaxy units. Nonetheless, the corporate has regularly moved away from it. The shift started in 2021, when Samsung began selling Google Messages as the popular possibility. By 2024, newer units now not got here with Samsung Messages preinstalled.
Now, with the Galaxy S26 and different current fashions, the app is now not accessible for obtain in any respect. As soon as the shutdown takes place in July, customers will be unable to ship common textual content messages by means of the app. Solely emergency messaging companies will stay useful.
Samsung has not confirmed the precise date of the shutdown inside July.
Why the shift to Google Messages
Samsung is directing customers towards Google Messages, which has develop into the default messaging app throughout most Android units. The corporate has additionally made accessible the steps to take when making the change, together with for customers of older variations resembling Android 12 and 13.
Google Messages gives options past easy SMS. A few of these options embrace RCS Messaging with typing indicators, extra superior group messaging, and higher-quality image messaging. As well as, there are AI-based anti-spam options in addition to multi-device synchronisation options, together with built-in Gemini AI.
Though Google Messages is the popular different, customers may contemplate different SMS purposes on the Play Retailer.
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As a part of preparations for this modification, customers are suggested to obtain Google Messages if it isn’t but accessible on their telephone. As soon as downloaded, they should set the appliance as their default messaging app.
This modification will have an effect on customers on Android 11 or earlier, however the firm nonetheless encourages them to modify to their most well-liked messaging app.
Impact on Galaxy Watch customers
This determination may additionally have an effect on some smartwatch customers. Outdated Galaxy Watch fashions working Samsung’s Tizen OS will now not have the ability to entry their full messaging historical past after the replace is full, as these units don’t help Google Messages.
However these watches will nonetheless help textual content messaging. The brand new Galaxy Watch fashions, such because the Galaxy Watch 4 and later, working Put on OS, will help full messaging capabilities.
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Samsung’s current determination signifies a rising pattern in the direction of integrating messaging companies within the Android universe. With the July deadline simply across the nook, customers are urged to make adjustments now to keep away from future hassle.
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