There’s good news if you want to keep using Samsung Messages (unless you’re in the US)

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• Samsung Messages is reaching end‑of‑service in July 2026.
• The shutdown is applicable to the US market only.
• Samsung recommends switching to Google Messages for an upgraded experience.

Early last month, Samsung announced that it would shut down its default texting app in July and suggested that users switch to Google Messages instead. The company has since clarified that the shutdown is currently limited to the US, and other regions can continue using Samsung Messages for the foreseeable future.

Samsung has updated its end‑of‑service announcement and added a line stating that the shutdown is “applicable to the US market only.” This statement was not present at the time of the original coverage.

What This Means for Non‑US Users

If you prefer using Samsung’s texting app and you’re not in the US, you can continue using it for now. While the company has clarified that the shutdown is limited to the US, it could be a precursor to a wider shutdown in the future, though this has not been confirmed.

Impact on Devices

• The shutdown will not affect users with devices running Android 11 or earlier.
• Users with devices running Android 12 or Android 13 will need to manually replace the Samsung Messages app icon on their home‑screen dock.

Switching to Google Messages

If you are still using Samsung Messages, you should see an option to switch to Google Messages. Alternatively, you can download Google Messages and set it as the default messaging app on your smartphone.