If you’re using the Galaxy Z Flip 6 or Galaxy Z Fold 6,you might have noticed the absence of a familiar app:Samsung Messages.Max Winebach reported on X(formerly Twitter)that Samsung has removed the preinstalled Samsung Messages app,directing users to Google Messages with RCS(Rich Communication Services)enabled by default.

　　Changes and Confirmation:

　　The announcement came through a message on the Samsung Members app,which indicated that this change applies to the Flip 6,Fold 6,and any future Samsung models,including the upcoming Galaxy S25 series.Joe Maring,Digital Trends’mobile section editor,also confirmed the absence of Samsung Messages on the Fold 6 and Flip 6 by default.

　　On checking my Galaxy S23 Ultra,both Samsung Messages and Google Messages are still installed,indicating that this change is not retroactive.The Samsung Messages app remains available for download from the Galaxy Store,but Samsung notes that”some features will be excluded.”

　　Regional Differences:

　　The change isn’t universal across all regions.According to Mishaal Rahman,the Samsung Messages app is still preinstalled on Canadian and European versions of the device.Currently,only U.S.unlocked/carrier units are affected by this change.

　　Why the Shift to Google Messages?

　　While both Samsung Messages and Google Messages technically support RCS,Google Messages comes with RCS enabled by default.This offers improved group chat functionality,better support for images,videos,and file sharing,as well as quality-of-life features like read receipts,real-time typing indicators,and end-to-end encryption.It appears that Samsung aims to phase out the Samsung Messages app sooner rather than later,making Google Messages the go-to messaging app for new devices.

　　What to Expect:

　　With the Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 now available for preorder,you’ll soon be able to see these app changes firsthand once the devices start shipping.For users still attached to Samsung Messages,it’s good to know the app is still downloadable,though some features might be missing.However,given the advantages of Google Messages,especially with RCS enabled,there’s little reason to stick with Samsung Messages.

　　This transition marks a significant shift in Samsung’s approach to messaging apps,aligning more closely with Google’s ecosystem and enhancing the overall user experience with RCS’s advanced capabilities.