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RCS messaging

Is Samsung Messages being discontinued? Here's when and what we know
AppWizard
April 8, 2026

Is Samsung Messages being discontinued? Here’s when and what we know

Samsung Electronics has announced the discontinuation of the Samsung Messages app, with support ceasing in July 2026. Users are encouraged to migrate to Google Messages, which will become the default messaging platform for Samsung Galaxy devices operating on Android 12 or newer. Devices running Android 11 or older will not be affected at this time. After July 2026, Samsung Messages will no longer send or receive texts, except for emergency contacts. Users can download Google Messages from the Google Play Store and set it as their default messaging app. Other messaging app options are available for users who prefer alternatives. Older Samsung Galaxy watches running Tizen OS will not support Google Messages after the transition, but will still allow text message functionality. RCS messaging, integrated into Google Messages, enhances the texting experience with features like read receipts and high-quality media sharing, whereas SMS is limited to basic text messaging.
Samsung replaces Messages app with Google's. What does this mean?
AppWizard
April 7, 2026

Samsung replaces Messages app with Google’s. What does this mean?

Samsung is discontinuing its Samsung Messages application and transitioning users to Google Messages by July. Users are encouraged to switch themselves for a smoother transition, with advantages including enhanced AI capabilities, multi-device connectivity, and RCS Messaging. The exact date for the discontinuation has yet to be provided. Users will receive in-app notifications to guide them through the transition, or they can manually download Google Messages and set it as their default SMS app. Samsung Messages will not be available for download on new devices, including the Galaxy S26. Users with Android 12 or 13 will need to manually add the Google Messages icon to their home screen dock after switching. Those with devices released prior to 2022 may experience temporary disruptions in RCS conversations. Messaging support will also cease for older generation smartwatches running Tizen OS, specifically those launched before the Galaxy Watch4.
Samsung shares an 'End of Service Announcement' for its Messages app in the US, here are the devices impacted
AppWizard
April 6, 2026

Samsung shares an ‘End of Service Announcement’ for its Messages app in the US, here are the devices impacted

Samsung will discontinue the Samsung Messages app in the United States by July 2026 and is encouraging users to transition to Google Messages as their default messaging app. This change primarily affects Samsung smartphone users in the U.S., particularly those with newer Android versions. Devices released prior to 2022 may face temporary disruptions in RCS conversations, though SMS and MMS will remain functional. Newer devices, such as the Galaxy S26 series and later, will not have Samsung Messages available for download from the Galaxy Store. After July 2026, the app will be completely inaccessible, and sending messages through Samsung Messages will be limited to emergency numbers or designated contacts. Users of older Galaxy smartwatches running Tizen OS will lose access to full message conversation history. Transition steps to Google Messages include downloading the app, setting it as the default SMS app, and confirming the choice.
Google Messages will finally tell you when your custom ROM is the problem (APK teardown)
AppWizard
August 1, 2025

Google Messages will finally tell you when your custom ROM is the problem (APK teardown)

Google has implemented a measure to enhance the security of its messaging platform by preventing devices that fail Play Integrity checks from sending Rich Communication Services (RCS) messages. This decision has led to users experiencing vanished messages without explanation, particularly affecting those with rooted phones or custom ROMs. Recent developments indicate that Google Messages will now inform users when their devices do not meet security requirements, with a new text string stating, "Your device does not meet security requirements," expected to appear in the RCS settings. Additionally, a "Details" button is anticipated to provide further clarification on RCS limitations. This change aims to improve user communication and reduce confusion regarding message disappearances.
Sorry, custom ROM fans: Google would rather have broken apps than insecure apps
AppWizard
July 29, 2024

Sorry, custom ROM fans: Google would rather have broken apps than insecure apps

Android's open-source nature allows users to explore apps beyond the Play Store and experiment with custom ROMs, but it creates security challenges for developers. The Play Integrity API has been developed to ensure applications run only on genuine Android devices. Custom ROM users face obstacles as more apps implement Play Integrity checks, leading to operational failures, such as with the Authy app on GrapheneOS. Google’s Shawn Willden acknowledged the dilemma posed by Play Integrity, stating unofficial OSs are assumed to be bad. However, he mentioned the possibility of developing a certification process for third-party ROMs to pass Android’s Compatibility Test Suite, though interest in such a program is low. Most Android users prefer a seamless experience on mainstream devices, prompting discussions about collaborating with developers to create apps that do not rely on Play Integrity checks.
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