Samsung has issued an “End of Service Announcement” for its Samsung Messages app in the US. The Korean smartphone maker has confirmed that it will discontinue the default messaging platform in July 2026. The move will require users to switch to Google Messages to continue sending and receiving texts, as the company aligns its messaging experience with Google’s ecosystem on Android.In an official blog post, Samsung wrote, “The Samsung Messages The application will be discontinued in July 2026. Upgrade to Google Messages as your default messaging app today to maintain a consistent messaging experience on Android.”Samsung said users can check the Messages app for the exact discontinuation date, adding that devices running Android 11 or lower will not be affected by this change.
Google Messages app transition for Samsung users: Devices impacted and what changes
The transition will impact most Samsung smartphone users in the US, particularly those running newer Android versions. Devices released before 2022 may face temporary disruptions in ongoing RCS conversations during the switch, though SMS and MMS messaging will continue to function. RCS chats can resume once both users move to Google Messages.Samsung also noted that owners of newer devices, including the Galaxy S26 series and beyond, will not be able to download Samsung Messages from the Galaxy Store. After July 2026, the app will no longer be available for download on other supported devices either.The company is encouraging users to move to Google Messages, highlighting features such as AI-powered spam detection, RCS messaging support, and Gemini-based tools for smart replies and media interactions. The app also enables multi-device syncing across phones, tablets, and compatible smartwatches.However, there are limitations for some users. Older Galaxy smartwatches running Tizen OS, particularly models launched before the Galaxy Watch4, will lose support for full message conversation history once Samsung Messages is discontinued, although basic messaging functions will remain available.Samsung has also clarified that once the app is retired, sending messages through Samsung Messages will not be possible, except for emergency numbers or designated emergency contacts. Users on Android 12 or 13 may need to manually place the Google Messages app in their home screen dock after switching, as the icon will not automatically replace Samsung Messages.
How to transition from Samsung Messages to Google Messages
To complete the transition, users can follow these steps to set Google Messages as the default SMS app on Samsung devices via the Play Store installation and device settings.1. Open or download Google Messages. The first time you open the app, a message appears: “To use Messages, make it your default SMS app.”2. Tap the ‘Set default SMS app’ button.3. Select Google Messages. Google Messages is the white icon with the blue conversation bubble.4. Tap ‘Set as default’.5. Google Messages will now be your default messaging app.