Samsung is preparing to make what seems to be a much-needed change. In an end-of-service announcement, Samsung announced that the company will be shutting down its Samsung Messages app to welcome Google Messages. While no specifics about the transition were mentioned, there is now a timeline for when the change will begin. Users of the messaging app can reportedly see the exact date in the Samsung Messages app.
The upside of the switch to Google Messages includes end-to-end encrypted RCS messages with AI-powered scam detection. It also comes equipped with multi-device connectivity with tablet, smartwatch, and web apps. Samsung Messages will be removed from its digital store in July 2026. The messaging app will also be shut down on Galaxy devices running Android 12 and newer.
Samsung has released instructions on how to make the switch to Google Messages for devices running Android 12 or Android 13. Users will need to download the Google Messages app from the Play Store and move the app to their homescreen while setting it as their default SMS app. The latest Galaxy S26 has reportedly been shipped without the Samsung Messages app, and users of the Galaxy S26 and upcoming flagships are unable to download the messaging app.
Samsung has also noted that smartwatches released before the Galaxy Watch 4 will not support Google Messages. Meaning, the Samsung Messages app will still be able to send and receive messages, but will be unable to show the full conversation history.
Source: Samsung, Via Android Police
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