A big change is about to come for Samsung users. The company has made it clear that it is going to shut down its default messaging app, Samsung Messages, from July 2026. Although this news may be a surprise for many people, but if we look at the last few years, it shows that Samsung was already slowly moving users towards Google Messages. Now, this change is about to be fully implemented. Samsung has said that its Messages app will stop working in July 2026. However, the exact date may vary depending on the model of the device. Users will get a notification directly within the app, giving them information much in advance.
What will happen after the app is closed?
Once the app is closed, you will no longer be able to send or receive messages through it. However, some basic features—such as emergency contacts—will still be available. The company’s aim is to ensure that users can switch to another app without any hassle.
Why is Samsung moving towards Google Messages?
For some time now, Samsung has been pre-installing Google Messages as the default messaging app in its new Galaxy smartphones. On many newer models, Samsung Messages isn’t even included as a pre-installed app. The move is aimed at unifying the messaging experience across the Android platform so that users don’t have to rely on different messaging apps.
Which users will be affected by this?
This change will not affect all users the same. For those using older devices—especially those running Android 11 or older—Samsung Messages will likely continue to work as usual. However, users who have newer devices and are running on Android 12 or newer will need to go to Google Messages.
What can users do now?
If you’re still using Samsung Messages, you’ll need to download the Google Messages app and make it your default messaging app. This is very easy to do, and once set up, you won’t face any further issues.
What special features are available in Google Messages?
New features like RCS chat are available in Google Messages. Through this platform, you can take advantage of features like read receipts, enhanced photo and video sharing capabilities, and many other smart functions – providing a much better messaging experience than traditional SMS.
What will change for Galaxy users?
Samsung Messages has been a vital part of Galaxy phones for a long time, so its demise will definitely feel a little different. However, in reality, this change had already begun gradually. Many users have already shifted to Google Messages; Therefore, this change is not sudden, but the final stage of a long process.