MANILA, Philippines – Samsung is ending its long-time Galaxy Messages app, with millions of users set to rely on Google Messages for texting on newer devices by July 2026.
The tech giant announced the change in an “End of Service” notice on its U.S. support website on March 30.
The update applies to users in the U.S. market only, while those using Android 11 or older versions will not be affected by the change.
Samsung is urging users to set Google Messages as their default app to keep conversations smooth and consistent across Android devices.
New Galaxy models, including the Galaxy S26 series, will no longer come with the old app.
The company also said the app is no longer available for download on newer devices and will be removed from the Galaxy store after the discontinuation.
While emergency alerts may still work, normal texting will eventually stop for most users. Some may also see in-app prompts guiding them through the switch.
New default messaging app
Google Messages uses Rich Communication Services (RCS), allowing users to send messages over the internet rather than through standard SMS.
RCS is supported across Android and iOS, enabling users to share higher-quality photos and videos, create group chats, and see typing indicators and read receipts.
It also supports sharing higher-quality photos and videos and shows when someone is typing or has read a message — features not available in Samsung Messages.
The app includes AI-powered tools from Google’s Gemini system, which can suggest quick replies and scan messages for useful actions.
Google Messages also includes spam protection and scam detection features that can help identify and block suspicious messages.
It also syncs messages across tablets, smartwatches, and other devices, keeping conversations up to date no matter which device a user is on.
Devices affected
Some older devices may experience temporary issues during the switch. Phones released before 2022 could face disruptions in RCS messaging if contacts have not yet switched to Google Messages.
RCS conversations may resume once both users have switched to Google Messages, while SMS and MMS services will remain available during the transition.
Older Samsung smartwatches running Tizen OS, especially models launched before the Galaxy Watch4, will lose messaging support.
These devices may still allow basic text messaging, but full conversation history may no longer be accessible.
Users on Android 12 or 13 may need to manually add Google Messages to their home screens. Phones running Android 11 or older will not be affected.
Transition details
Samsung recommends that users download Google Messages from the Play Store and set it as their default app before the July 2026 transition.
Users may receive an in-app notification to guide them through the process, but they can also switch manually by selecting Google Messages as their default SMS app in device settings. (By Rojelyn Cona, INQUIRER.net Intern)