Samsung is ending Messages in July: 5 replacements I'd switch to now

Tech Home Tech Services & Software Samsung is ending Messages in July: 5 replacements I'd switch to now If you use Samsung's built-in texting app, you'll need an alternative soon. Here's why, and your best options. Written by Jack Wallen, Contributing WriterContributing Writer April 21, 2026 at 7:03 a.m. PT

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ZDNET key takeaways

• Samsung is killing its messaging app in July.
• Users in the US with Android v12 or newer need to switch.
• There are plenty of superior options to choose from.

Multiple reports have been issued that Samsung is shutting down its messaging app and service.

According to this Samsung community post, the service EOL will be this July, which means you have a few short months to find a new app and grow accustomed to it. If that sounds like what you're facing, you're probably wondering which app or service you should use. The good news is that there are plenty, so you don't have to worry.

Also: I've tested every Razr and Galaxy Flip: 3 reasons Motorola crushes Samsung at foldables

Before we get into this, know that the end of life for the Samsung messaging app is only slated for the US (for now). Another asterisk is that those who use Android 11 or older will not be affected by the change. So, if you're in the US and you use an Android phone that runs version 12 or newer, you're going to have to make the switch.

But what should you switch to?

1. Google Messages

Google Messages is the most obvious choice. In fact, this is the app or service that Samsung is recommending to its users. And why not? Google Messages is a fantastic app, and it is seamlessly integrated into Android for a more complete experience.

And with Google Messages now defaulting to RCS (Rich Communication Services), you're getting a more modern messaging service that features things like Wi-Fi texting, high-resolution media sharing, typing indicators, read receipts, and end-to-end encryption. That short list covers pretty much everything you need in an advanced messaging service. On top of that, the app is well-designed and very easy to use.

Also: How to use Google Messages' new Trash feature to recover texts you accidentally deleted

Google Messages is free to use and ships with Android. If you find your Samsung device does not include Google Messages, you can install it from the Google Play Store.

2. WhatsApp

I have a friend who now lives in Egypt, and his go-to messaging app is WhatsApp. He also uses this same app for phone calls, so that should tell you something about the app or service. 

WhatsApp is global, and according to Business of Apps, it has over 2.9 billion users worldwide. On top of that, WhatsApp is one of the few apps that has been downloaded over 5 billion times (across both Android and iOS app stores).

With so many users, it's pretty safe to say that WhatsApp is a safe bet. WhatsApp includes features like voice message transcription, HD media sharing, message management, favorites, mentions, channels, chat lock, 2-step verification, disappearing messages, customizable status, and more.

Also: The best private messaging apps of 2026: Expert tested

WhatsApp is free to install (from the Google Play Store) and free to use (although there is a Premium option that adds things like themability).

3. Facebook Messenger

Although I hesitate to include this app, I cannot ignore it because it happens to be the one I use the most. And although Facebook has become a cesspool itself, the Messenger app is still pretty solid.

According to Bank My Call, Facebook Messenger has over 1.04 billion worldwide users, which is not too shabby.

What I like about Facebook Messenger is that I do not have to have someone's phone number to chat with them. As long as they are friends of mine on Facebook, I can send them messages all day and night.

Also: How to delete Facebook, Messenger, or Instagram - if you want Meta out of your life

The Facebook Messenger feature list includes both text messaging and voice calls, group chats and rooms, media or file sharing, end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, blocking, QR codes, and more.

You can install and use Facebook Messenger for free, but you do have to have a Facebook account to use it (which is also free).

4. Telegram

Telegram has more features than any other messaging app on the market. That is especially great for power users.

One unique feature of Telegram is cloud sync. With this feature, you can start a message on one device and then finish it on another. 

You also get features like large groups and chats (with up to 200,000 members for groups), file sharing (up to 2 GB file size), message editing or deleting, chat folders, scheduled and silent messages, secret chats, usernames, 2-factor authentication, animated stickers and emoji, and more.

Also: How to check if a text message is spam on Android - and the free tool I rely on

The one caveat with using Telegram is that you do not get end-to-end encryption, which means that someone could intercept and read your messages (if they know how). If you're serious about security, that might cause you to hard pass on Telegram.

Telegram can be installed for free from the Google Play Store.

5. Signal

If you're serious about security, then Signal is the app you should be using. Like Telegram, Signal has a ton of features, but what makes Signal really stand out is the advanced open-source Signal Protocol that provides mandatory end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls.

Signal also collects the bare minimum metadata, offers disappearing messages, and features safety numbers to prevent message interception (so even Signal cannot access your communications). You also get a Signal PIN for recovering profiles, settings, and contacts (all of which Signal cannot access).

Also: What is Signal? 7 features that make it a go-to app for private, secure messaging

In other words, if you want serious security for your messages, Signal is the app to use.

You can install and use Signal for free from the Google Play Store.

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