as the default messaging app on its latest devices. This change starts with the new
and will be rolled out to future Galaxy phones as well.
Samsung says why it is switching from Samsung Messages to Google Messages
The tech media outlet Android Authority recently got the scoop from Samsung on why it is ditching its own messaging app in favor of Google’s.
Samsung and Google have been closely working together on many communication service areas and this collaborative effort to make Google Messages the default common messaging platform for the Android mobile ecosystem will accelerate the adoption of Rich Communication Services (RCS) and deliver a more robust and engaging mobile messaging experience to Galaxy users.
– Samsung, July 2024
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is the next-gen messaging standard designed to take over from SMS and MMS. It offers a richer experience with internet-based messaging, allowing for high-quality media sharing, voice notes, typing indicators, and more. While Google Messages hasn’t yet matched Samsung’s app for high-quality image sharing, that is set to change soon. Google Messages is expected to start supporting high-resolution photo sharing via RCS soon.
The new Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 are the first to come with pre-installed Google Messages. | Image credit – PhoneArena
On the other hand, Google Messages supports RCS across all carriers, while Samsung Messages’ RCS capabilities depend on the mobile network. So, switching to Google Messages could offer a more seamless and user-friendly experience for Galaxy users.
Galaxy phone owners can still use Samsung Messages if they prefer, even with the switch. Samsung also mentioned that users can download Samsung Messages from the Galaxy Store if they want to continue using it.
For a while now, Google has been pushing hard to make RCS the new standard for messaging, and it is making significant progress.
Recent reports suggest that Google Messages is set to upgrade older cross-platform chats—like those with iPhone users—to the RCS standard. This comes on the heels of Apple’s decision to finally embrace RCS for iMessage, ending years of reluctance.