Verizon is discontinuing its Message+ app. What are you doing now?

Verizon Messages (Message+) is a popular messaging app from the telecommunications giant, but it will be discontinued next month.

The app, which has over 250 million users, lets you sync your text conversations across all compatible devices. Verizon Messages is separate from your phone's other messaging apps like iMessage and Google Messages.

Once the app shuts down, you'll need to switch to another app to continue sending and receiving messages. Here's everything you need to know about the Message+ shutdown.

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Message+ allowed users to sync text conversations across compatible devices. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why is Message+ shutting down?

Verizon's Message+ will be completely retired on November 7, 2024 due to the new Rich Communication Services (RCS) protocol. Accordingly Verizon support pagethe app is being discontinued because the company wants to provide “the best messaging experience.” Google Messages, which comes pre-installed on Android phones, already offers this experience thanks to RCS support. In addition, iPhones starting from iOS 18 also support the RCS protocol.

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What is RCS? It is a communications protocol standard for instant messaging that offers many useful features. With RCS Messages you can send high-resolution photos and videos, share files, send messages over Wi-Fi or mobile data, and more. This also includes read receipts, typing indicators and the ability to chat in groups.

RCS messaging was previously limited to Android-to-Android chats, but with iOS 18, Apple has also made iPhones compatible with the protocol.

Users can prepare for app shutdown. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What happens if the app is shut down?

Once the app is shut down, you will no longer be able to access or use any of its functions. If you still have it installed on your phone, we recommend uninstalling it to free up space and avoid confusion. Any messages you scheduled through Message+ to be sent after November 7th will not be delivered. This means you need to find an alternative way to send these messages.

Additionally, the Message+ app will be completely removed from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, preventing you from downloading or reinstalling it in the future.

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Pros and Cons of Switching to Google Messages

Advantages:

• Better emoji support and more GIF options
• Advanced features such as RCS messages, read receipts and typing indicators
• Seamless integration with other Google services
• Regular updates and improvements

Disadvantages:

• Potential privacy concerns due to Google's data collection practices
• Loss of some Verizon-specific features that were available in Message+
• Learning curve for users familiar with the Message+ interface
• No automatic transfer of message history from Message+ to Google Messages
• Manual intervention required to save old messages from switching
• Possible loss of message history if proper steps are not taken before shutting down Message+
• Requirement to use third-party backup apps or manual screenshots to save important conversations

How to switch to Google Messages

Verizon recommends that you move your messages to Google Messages after shutting down the Messages+ app. This only applies to Android users. Below are the steps to do this.

• Download the Google Messages app Download from the Google Play Store if you don't already have it.
• Open that Google News app.
• When you open the app for the first time, make Google Messages your default texting app by tapping Set default SMS App popup.

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Google Messages app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What you need to know before switching to Google Messages

Please note that when you switch to Google Messages, your Message+ message history will not automatically transfer over. You'll need to take additional steps to preserve your old messages, such as: B. the use of a Third-party backup app or save important conversations manually.

Unfortunately, there's also no official way to save old messages from the Verizon Message+ app directly to Google Messages. To keep your message history, you may need to use Third-party backup apps Or take a manual screenshot of important conversations before the app shuts down.

Alternatives to Google Messages

Google's data sharing policies may prevent some of you from switching to Google Messages. I've even received emails from people asking about alternative messaging apps. My top recommendations are Signal, WhatsApp and Telegram. Signal stands out as the best option because it was developed by a non-profit organization and prioritizes the security of your data. I provided Detailed instructions on how to get started with these apps can be found here. Although they are all free, the biggest hurdle is convincing your friends and family to switch. Unlike Message+, both the sender and recipient must have the app installed to start sending SMS.

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Beware of scammers when switching to another app

When switching to a new messaging app, it's important to remain vigilant against scammers who may try to take advantage of your switch. Scammers often target users during app modifications, using a variety of tactics to obtain personal information or trick you into downloading malicious software.

Scammers may send you messages that look like they come from your new messaging app, asking you to verify your account or provide personal information. Always check the sender address and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that install malware and potentially access your private data is to install antivirus software on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, protecting your personal information and digital assets. Get my pick of the best antivirus winners of 2024 for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Kurt's key to take home

Verizon's Message+ is a favorite default texting app for many of us. However, it lacks some features that modern messaging apps offer, making shutdown a little less inconvenient. For a better experience, you can easily switch to Google Messages or any other messaging app of your choice. Just be careful Phishing links while using these messaging apps, as scammers often target users during transitions.

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