Top 3 Key Points:
- Phasing Out: Samsung stops pre-installing Samsung Messages on new Galaxy phones in favor of Google Messages.
- Enhanced RCS Support: Google Messages offers superior RCS capabilities, aligning with Samsung’s strategic shift.
- Availability: Samsung Messages remains downloadable but with limited features.
In a significant strategic shift, Samsung has officially announced the discontinuation of pre-installing its proprietary Samsung Messages app on new Galaxy devices in the US, opting instead for Google’s Messages app. This decision aligns with the tech giant’s ongoing efforts to streamline its user experience and enhance communication functionalities through robust RCS (Rich Communication Services) support provided by Google Messages.
For years, the Samsung Messages app was a ubiquitous presence on Galaxy smartphones, serving as the default messaging platform. However, this began to change with the introduction of the Galaxy S22 series in 2022, marking the beginning of Samsung’s gradual transition towards Google Messages. Despite both applications supporting RCS, Google’s solution has demonstrated superior capabilities, prompting Samsung to designate it as the default SMS/RCS app on their devices. Initially, Samsung still offered its messaging app as an optional pre-installed feature, but this will no longer be the case.
Starting with the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 models, Samsung Messages will not come pre-installed. This information, confirmed by Max Weinbach and communicated to users via the Samsung Members app, signifies Samsung’s commitment to providing a more cohesive and enhanced messaging experience. The notice specifically states:
“Starting with Flip6, Fold6, and newer models, the Samsung Messages app will no longer be preloaded. Instead, Google Messages will provide a new and enhanced experience to express your emotions, making communication safe and fun.”
While the initial implementation appears limited to US models, with reports indicating that European and Canadian versions still include Samsung Messages, it remains to be seen if this change will extend globally. Notably, the transition to Google Messages also ensures that RCS is enabled by default on devices such as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, offering users improved messaging features out of the box.
For those who prefer Samsung’s messaging app, it will still be available for download via the Galaxy Store. However, Samsung has indicated that some features may be excluded, potentially limiting its functionality compared to previous iterations.
The latest Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 models are now available for pre-order, featuring attractive offers including up to $1,200 in trade-in value, free storage upgrades, and additional perks. These devices, alongside the new Galaxy Ring, Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Galaxy Watch 7, and Galaxy Watch Ultra, are set to start shipping on July 24.
Samsung’s decision to fully integrate Google Messages on its latest devices underscores a broader trend within the industry to prioritize advanced communication standards and streamline user experiences. As RCS continues to evolve, this move could signal a new era of enhanced messaging capabilities for Samsung users, aligning with the broader ecosystem of Google’s services.
