Galaxy Z Fold 7: How to Get Samsung Messages Back

Quick summary: Samsung Galaxy phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 use Google Messages by default. I use Google Messages, but if you’d rather have Samsung Messages back, here’s how.

Step by step

1. Open the Galaxy Store: swipe up from the home screen and find Galaxy Store. If you can’t spot it, type “Galaxy” in the search bar.
2. Search for Messages: tap search in the top right and type messages.
3. Pick the right app: scroll down to Samsung Messages by Samsung Electronics. Several apps look almost the same, so check the developer. Tap Install, then Open.
4. Allow permissions: let it access your call logs, contacts, phone and SMS messages.
5. Make it your default: when it says you need to make it your default messaging app, tap OK, choose Messages (the blue icon) and tap Set as default. It pulls in all the messages stored on your phone, even ones you got in Google Messages.
6. Turn on RCS chat: tap the three dots > Settings > Chat settings and tap Start under Register for chat service. This free service lets you chat one-on-one and in groups and share large files over RCS.
7. Add it to your home screen: swipe up, search for Messages (the blue one), press and hold it, and tap Add to Home.

Get one

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 (the newest Fold) at Samsung
• Mint Mobile: $15 unlimited data, talk and text