Samsung has shared an “End of Service Announcement” for its Messages app in the US. Set for July 2026, Google Messages is the intended replacement, with Samsung offering a guided transition. This has been a long time coming.
Once the Samsung Messages app is discontinued, sending messages via Samsung Messages on your phone will no longer be possible, except for emergency service numbers or emergency contacts defined in your device.
The app will no longer be available for download in the Galaxy Store after July. Galaxy S26 users are already prevented from downloading Samsung Messages.
This is for Galaxy users on Android 12 and newer, with the notice spotted today on Samsung’s US site. Older devices are “not affected by this End of Service.”
Samsung Messages will guide users to Google Messages with an in-app notification and on-screen instructions. On Android 14+, the Google Messages icon will “automatically shift” to your homescreen dock after switching.
- Open or download Google Messages. The first time you open the app, a message appears: “To use Messages, make it your default SMS app.”
- Tap the ’Set default SMS app’ button.
- Select Google Messages. Google Messages is the white icon with the blue conversation bubble.
- Tap ’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.”
“…however, those watches will still enable the user to read and send text messages.”
Additionally:
For Samsung devices released before 2022, switching messaging applications may temporarily disrupt ongoing RCS conversations. However, RCS conversations can resume if both parties switch to Google Messages. MMS/SMS messaging will remain available during this period.
Samsung highlights “upgrades” in Google Messages like:
Powerful Security: “AI-powered scam detection and robust spam filters identify and block suspicious texts to help keep your inbox clean and your personal information safer.”
RCS Messaging: “With RCS enabled across Android and iOS, you and your friends can share high-quality photos and videos, enhance your group chats, see real-time typing indicators, and more.”
Expressive AI Features: “Access powerful Gemini features to bring AI-powered expressivity to your chats, including remixing photos and smart replies.”
Multi-Device Connectivity: “Switch chats between your phone, tablet or smart watch without any interruption.”
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