Samsung ditches messages: a guide to saving your chats

Samsung is pulling the plug on its native messaging app, forcing users to migrate to Google Messages. It’s a surprisingly disruptive shift, and many are understandably anxious about losing their conversations. Don’t panic – here’s how to ensure your messages aren’t lost in the transition.

The end of an era: samsung messages is going away

The tech giant has quietly announced its plans to discontinue the Samsung Messages app, citing a desire to streamline its software offerings. This means Galaxy S25 and S26 series phones won’t even allow you to download it from the Galaxy Store. It’s a move that’s already raising eyebrows amongst users invested in the Samsung ecosystem.

Switching is simple – if you know how

Fortunately, migrating to Google Messages isn’t a nightmare. If you own a Galaxy S26, you’re already halfway there – Google Messages is pre-installed. For other Galaxy devices, it’s a straightforward process. First, download Google Messages from the Play Store. Launch it and select ‘Set as default SMS app.’ That’s it – Google Messages becomes your primary messaging client.

A backup is your safety net

However, a critical caveat emerged quickly: many users are reporting message loss during the switch. Don’t assume the automatic transfer is flawless. This is where the SMS Backup & Restore app comes in. It’s not sponsored, frankly – I’ve personally found it reliable – and it’s crucial for safeguarding your data.

Creating a backup with sms backup & restore

Here's how to use it: Install the app from the Play Store. Then, initiate a backup – tap ‘Set Up a Backup’ and select ‘Messages’. Choose a cloud storage location (I used ‘Your Phone’ for this one-time backup). Disable automatic backups if you’re only doing this now. Finally, tap ‘Back Up Now.’ This creates a comprehensive snapshot of your conversations.

Restoring your messages

To restore, open the app, tap the hamburger icon, and select ‘Restore’. Enable the Messages toggle and tap ‘Restore.’ The app will then request permission to become the default SMS app. Once granted, clear the data of the Google Messages app and set it as the default again. This final step is paramount.

Don’t rely solely on automatic transfer

While the built-in transfer is convenient, it’s far from foolproof. The SMS Backup & Restore app offers a significantly more reliable method, especially for users with extensive message histories. It’s a small investment of time that could prevent significant data loss – a lesson learned the hard way by many.

The bottom line: protect your conversations

Samsung’s decision to phase out its messaging app is a signal of broader shifts in the industry. Don’t let it cost you your meticulously crafted conversations. Back up your messages now using SMS Backup & Restore, and you’ll be well-protected.