Samsung Messages is about to shut down for good – why were you still using it? [Poll]
Source: 9to5Google
Why Samsung Messages fell behind
Google Messages and Samsung Messages both serve the same core purpose – sending and receiving SMS and RCS messages through your phone number. Both are competent at that job, but the shift to RCS on Android led almost everyone to move over to Google Messages. As a result, Samsung Messages largely took a backseat【source】.
Over the years, Samsung Messages was prioritized less and less in new Samsung releases. It saw a brief revival in 2025 with the addition of RCS support【source】and some new features【source】.
Shutdown announcement
Last week’s announcement that Samsung Messages would be fully discontinued【source】came as a surprise. As of July 2026, Samsung Messages will no longer be operable outside of emergency situations, and Samsung is directing all users on Android 12 and higher to Google Messages instead.
User reactions
The news has pulled mixed reactions from Galaxy users. Some are upset about handing control over to Google【Reddit discussion】, but the most common complaint is the loss of customizability. Many Samsung Messages users are frustrated that, while Samsung Messages could integrate with theme packs for a full makeover, Google Messages lacks that level of customization【Reddit thread】.
Loss of themes and customization
Themes are arguably the biggest loss. In terms of features and layout, Google Messages is largely on par with Samsung’s offering, but Samsung Messages allowed deep integration with Galaxy theme packs.
Examples of Samsung Messages themes – the Galaxy Store blocks screenshots of the actual demo.
Community poll
What will you miss about the Samsung Messages app? If you’ve still been using it, what’s your biggest reason for sticking with it? Vote in the poll below and leave a comment!