Samsung is shutting down Samsung Messages in July 2026 — not this July — and only for users in the US on Android 12 or newer. So you’ve got time, but here’s what to do: What’s happening 1. End date: July 2026. Samsung hasn’t given the exact day yet — check the Samsung Messages app for your cutoff. 2. After shutdown: You won’t be able to send texts through Samsung Messages except to 911 or emergency contacts. 3. Who’s affected: US users on Android 12+. If you’re on Android 11 or older, Samsung Messages keeps working. What to do now Switch to Google Messages — Samsung’s official replacement. How to switch: 1. Download Google Messages from Play Store if it’s not already on your phone. Most newer Galaxies have it pre-installed. 2. Open Google Messages. You’ll see: “To use Messages, make it your default SMS app”. 3. Tap Set default SMS app → choose Google Messages → Set as default. 4. On Android 14+, the Google Messages icon will auto-move to your home screen dock. Your existing texts and conversations should transfer automatically when you switch. What you gain with Google Messages • RCS messaging: High-quality photos/videos, read receipts, typing indicators, works with iPhone • Better spam/scam protection • Multi-device sync: Text from phone, tablet, watch • AI features: Smart replies, Gemini photo remixing What you lose • Samsung themes: Google Messages doesn’t support Galaxy theme packs • Pre-2022 phones: RCS chats may temporarily glitch during the switch, but SMS/MMS still works • Older watches: Tizen watches before Galaxy Watch 4 can’t run Google Messages — they’ll only do basic texting after July Bottom line Samsung’s been phasing this out since 2022. If you’ve got a Galaxy S25, Z Fold 6/Flip 6, or newer, you’re probably already on Google Messages. Do it now to avoid scrambling in July. Takes 2 minutes and you’ll get better features.