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Samsung Messages App Shutting Down in July, Users Urged to Switch to Google Messages

Samsung is making a major change that could affect how millions of people send texts on their phones.

The company announced it will discontinue Samsung Messages, its built-in texting platform, with support officially ending in July. Users who still rely on the app are being encouraged to transition to Google Messages instead.

For many Samsung users, the switch may already be complete. Newer flagship devices typically come with Google Messages set as the default texting app, meaning some customers may not even notice the change.

However, those using older Samsung phones are more likely to still have Samsung Messages installed and set as their primary messaging platform. For those users, now is the time to make the transition to avoid any disruption in service.

Google Messages offers many of the same features, along with enhanced capabilities like Rich Communication Services, or RCS, which allows for features similar to iMessage — including read receipts, typing indicators, and higher-quality media sharing.

Samsung has not indicated any major issues with the app itself, but the move reflects a broader shift toward standardizing messaging platforms across Android devices.

If you’re still using Samsung Messages, experts recommend switching sooner rather than later to ensure a smooth transition before the July cutoff.

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By: NBC Palm Springs

April 6, 2026

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Samsung Messages App Shutting Down in July, Users Urged to Switch to Google Messages