Samsung will discontinue the Samsung Messages service in July 2026, urging users to transition to Google Messages as the default messaging app.
The shift signifies a complete move towards Google Messages, which is now pre-installed on all new Samsung devices, including the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Z Fold 8. Users on devices running Android 11 or lower will not be impacted by the discontinuation.
Samsung plans to facilitate the switch by providing in-app notifications to Samsung Messages users. The Google Messages app can also be manually downloaded from the Google Play Store for those who need it.
For Galaxy devices running Android 8.0 and above, Google Messages offers features that require it to be set as the default SMS app. Data backup is supported through Samsung Smart Switch or Google Drive, ensuring users do not lose information during the transition.
After discontinuation, users will only be able to send messages via Samsung Messages for emergency contacts. RCS disruptions are expected for some older Samsung devices released before 2022.
Samsung confirmed that Galaxy S26 and newer devices will not have access to download Samsung Messages from the Galaxy Store. Older Galaxy Watch models with Tizen OS, produced before the Galaxy Watch 4, will not support Google Messages after the shutdown.
Samsung stated, “We want to ensure that the transition to Google Messages is seamless for all users.” In-app notifications will guide users through the change, aiming to minimize disruption to their messaging capabilities.
As the discontinuation date approaches, Samsung Messages will remain available on the Galaxy Store, allowing users to transition at their convenience before the service ends in 2026.
