After gradually reducing its presence in certain regions, Samsung has officially announced it will no longer pre-install the Samsung Messages app on Galaxy devices, opting instead for Google Messages.
For years, Samsung Messages has been a standard feature on Galaxy smartphones. However, the shift began with the Galaxy S22 series in 2022, aligning with Google’s push for Rich Communication Services (RCS). Although Samsung Messages supports RCS, Google Messages provides better integration and support. In 2022, Samsung made Google Messages the default SMS/RCS app on Galaxy devices while still pre-installing its own messaging app as an option.
Samsung is Doing Away with Samsung Messages in Favor of Google Messages
Now, Samsung is taking the next step. Starting with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6, Samsung Messages will no longer be pre-installed on Galaxy phones in favor of Google Messages. This was confirmed through a notice in the Samsung Members app, as reported by Max Weinbach.
The notice in the Samsung Members app states:
“Starting with Flip6, Fold6, and newer models, the Samsung Messages app will no longer be on the phones by default. Instead, Google Messages will provide a new and enhanced experience to express your emotions, making communication safe and fun.”
Samsung’s Move in the Direction of Google Messages has Regional Variations
Samsung’s notice did not specify if this change applies globally. However, the US version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 was found to be without Samsung Messages. According to Mishaal Rahman, European and Canadian devices still include Samsung Messages.
Max Weinbach also observed that Samsung has enabled RCS by default on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 using the Google Messages app.
Availability and Future of Samsung Messages
Although the Samsung Messages app may not come pre-installed on new devices, it remains available for download through the Galaxy Store. Samsung has indicated that the downloadable version will exclude some notable features. From the look of things, Samsung is gradually doing this to redirect users to Google Messages gradually.
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How Would Samsung’s Move for Google Messages Affect Users?
This change reflects Samsung’s commitment to providing a unified and enhanced messaging experience across its devices. Google Messages offers advanced features and better support for RCS, which enhances messaging capabilities, such as high-quality media sharing, typing indicators, and read receipts. Even though Samsung’s default messaging app doesn’t come less in features, the wider spread of Google Messages across other Android devices adds extra level of convenience.
For users who prefer Samsung Messages, the app remains accessible, albeit with some limitations. The transition to Google Messages aims to streamline communication services on Samsung devices, ensuring that users benefit from the latest advancements in messaging technology. It also enhances the use of RCS messages across all other devices. This offers a wide range of features and uniformity amongst smartphone use across different ecosystems.
Conclusion
Samsung’s decision to replace Samsung Messages with Google Messages on new Galaxy devices represents a notable shift in the company’s approach to messaging services. This transition underscores Samsung’s commitment to integrating advanced communication technologies and delivering a more seamless user experience. By adopting Google Messages, Samsung is aligning with industry standards and leveraging Google’s robust support for Rich Communication Services (RCS). This change ensures that Galaxy users benefit from enhanced messaging features such as high-resolution media sharing, typing indicators, read receipts, and improved security.
For users accustomed to Samsung Messages, the app remains available for download from the Galaxy Store, though it will have some limitations compared to its pre-installed counterpart. This approach allows Samsung to cater to users who prefer their legacy messaging app while gradually transitioning to Google Messages for the broader user base.
As Samsung continues to innovate and refine its software offerings, this shift to Google Messages reflects a broader trend towards unifying communication platforms across devices. The move promises to provide Galaxy users with a more integrated, feature-rich messaging experience that aligns with modern communication needs. This strategic decision highlights Samsung’s focus on enhancing user satisfaction and staying competitive in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
