Samsung has announced it will discontinue its native Samsung Messages app on Galaxy smartphones in July 2026, replacing it with Google Messages as the default app. This change brings to an end the dedicated Samsung-designed SMS/RCS client, shifting focus to a unified Android messaging experience.
Key Details About the Switch:
- Deadline: Samsung Messages will cease functioning for most tasks, excluding emergency services, by July 2026.
- Replacement: Google Messages is the new default, already pre-installed on recent devices, offering better integration of RCS features.
- Affected Devices: Users are advised to move to Google Messages; however, devices running Android 11 or older will continue to support the original Samsung Messages app.
What to do: Download and switch to Google Messages and ensure your contacts and chats are safe.
After July 2026, the Samsung Messages app will no longer be available for download on the Galaxy Store. This strategic move is intended to ensure consistency in messaging features and faster adoption of new RCS standards.
