Samsung switches to Google Messages as default on US Galaxy phones

Photo: Samsung

Many Android phones rely on Google Messages by default, but Samsung has traditionally used its own app. This changes for US users with the Galaxy Z Flip6, Fold6, and newer models. Analyst Max Weinbach discovered a Samsung Members app announcement revealing that Google Messages will become the pre-installed texting app.

A screenshot of the post reads: "Starting with the Flip 6, Fold 6, 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 Samsung Messages is still downloadable from the Galaxy Store, some features will be missing (details unspecified). Android Authority contributor Mishaal Rahman also noted that Samsung Messages remains the default for Canadian and European Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 builds, suggesting this is a US-only shift for now.

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