Samsung he says that it will discontinue the Samsung Messages app in July 2026 and directs Galaxy users to switch to Google Messages:
Samsung wants users to use Google Messages as their default app to maintain a consistent messaging experience on Android. The fine print also states that once the app is discontinued, “messaging through Samsung Messages on your phone will no longer be possible, except to emergency numbers or emergency contacts defined on your device.”
Samsung also notes that users will no longer be able to download the Messages app from the Galaxy Store once it is discontinued. Newer devices, including the Galaxy S26 series, already do not support installing Samsung Messages. It is worth noting that users running Android 11 or any older version are not affected by this change and will still be able to use the Samsung Messages app on their devices.
The company also warns that on some devices released before 2022, app switching may temporarily interrupt ongoing RCS conversations. However, conversations will resume once both users involved switch to Google Messages.
The company also cites some of the benefits of the change, such as improved security, RCS support, artificial intelligence features, and better multi-device connectivity.
Although the press releases will range from very select to rare, I said I'd pass...because sometimes the editors hide.
