Set default messaging app on Galaxy S25

If you prefer Google Messages over Samsung Messages (or vice versa), you can change which app handles all your texts and MMS. Here is how to set your default messaging app on Galaxy S25.

Change the default messaging app

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps.
3. Tap Choose default apps.
4. Tap SMS app.
5. Select the messaging app you want to use as your default (Google Messages, Samsung Messages, or any other installed SMS app).
6. Send a test text to confirm the new default is working.

What changes when you switch defaults

• All new SMS and MMS messages will be handled by the new default app.
• Notifications will come from the new app instead of the old one.
• Your existing message history stays in the old app unless you export or migrate it.
• RCS chat features may only be available in Google Messages (not Samsung Messages on most carriers).

If the app you want does not appear in the list

1. Make sure the app is installed and updated from Play Store or Galaxy Store.
2. Open the app at least once and complete any initial setup.
3. Go back to Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > SMS app and check again.
4. Restart your phone if the app still does not show up.

Google Messages vs Samsung Messages

• Google Messages supports RCS chat features on most carriers, including read receipts, typing indicators, and higher-quality media sharing.
• Samsung Messages integrates more tightly with other Samsung apps and features like link sharing and Samsung account sync.
• Either app handles standard SMS and MMS reliably. The choice comes down to whether you prefer RCS features or Samsung ecosystem integration.