Samsung is axing its own Messages app and replacing it with Google Messages, giving users until July 2026 to make the switch.
The South Korean tech giant confirmed over the weekend that the Samsung Messages app will be discontinued, with all users pushed onto Google’s alternative instead.
The move is largely driven by RCS messaging, which requires everyone to use the same platform to work properly. Having users split between Samsung and Google apps has been causing compatibility issues.
RCS is a step up from standard SMS, offering messaging over data, high quality media sharing, typing indicators and smoother group chats.
It’s unclear how many Samsung users are already on Google Messages, but the change will likely frustrate those who have stuck loyally with Samsung’s own app and had no reason to switch before now.
Importantly, the app won’t automatically move to your home screen, so you’ll need to add Google Messages manually once the change takes effect.
If your device is running Android 11 or earlier, you won’t be affected by the update at all.
