In a significant shift for its messaging services, Samsung has announced the discontinuation of its Samsung Messages application, with plans to transition users to Google Messages by July. This decision, communicated in an End of Service Announcement during the week of March 30, encourages users to initiate the switch themselves for a smoother transition.
Samsung highlights several advantages of moving to Google Messages, including enhanced AI capabilities such as spam detection and filtering, powered by Google’s Gemini. The new platform also supports multi-device connectivity across smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, along with RCS Messaging, which utilizes internet-based messaging for improved communication.
When is Samsung Messages going away?
The Samsung Messages app is set to be discontinued in July, although an exact date has yet to be provided as of April 6.
Why is Samsung getting rid of its Messages app?
While the announcement did not specify the reasons behind this transition, inquiries have been made to Samsung for further clarification.
How to switch from Samsung to Google Messages
Users of Samsung Messages can expect in-app notifications that will guide them through the transition process. For those who prefer to switch manually, Samsung has outlined the following steps:
- Download or open the Google Messages app.
- Upon first use, a pop-up will prompt you to set Google Messages as your default SMS app. Tap “Set default SMS app.”
- Select Google Messages, identifiable by its white icon with a blue conversation bubble.
- Tap “Set as default.”
It is important to note that Samsung Messages will not be available for download on the upcoming Galaxy S26 or any new devices. Additionally, users with Android 12 or 13 will need to manually add the Google Messages icon to their home screen dock after completing the switch. The steps for this are as follows:
- Press and hold the Samsung Messages app in the home screen dock and select “Remove.”
- Locate the Google Messages app, press and hold it, and select “Add to home.”
- Drag the Google Messages app onto the home screen dock.
Samsung has indicated that users with devices released prior to 2022 may face temporary disruptions in RCS conversations, which can be alleviated by ensuring all users switch to Google Messages. Furthermore, messaging support will cease for older generation smartwatches running Tizen OS, specifically those launched before the Galaxy Watch4, following the transition to Google Messages.
