Verizon Messages (Message+) is a popular messaging app offered by the telecom giant, but it will be shut down next month.

The app, which has over 250 million users, allows you to 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 closes, you’ll need to switch to another app to continue sending and receiving messages. Here’s everything you need to know about quitting Message+.

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

Why does Message+ shut down?

Verizon’s Message+ will shut down completely on November 7, 2024 due to the new Rich Communication Services (RCS) protocol. According to 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 from iOS 18 also support the RCS protocol.

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So, what is RCS? It is a communication protocol standard for instant messaging, which offers many useful features. With RCS Messaging you can send high-resolution photos and videos, share files, send messages over Wi-Fi or mobile data, and more. They also include read receipts, typing indicators and the ability to chat in groups.

RCS messages were previously limited to Android-to-Android chats, but with iOS 18, Apple made iPhones compatible with the protocol as well.

Users can prepare to close the app. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What happens once the app closes?

Once the app closes, you will no longer be able to access or use any of its features. If you still have it installed on your phone, it’s a good idea to uninstall it to free up space and avoid confusion. Any messages you have scheduled through Message+ to be sent after November 7 will not be delivered, meaning you will need to find an alternate way to send these messages.

Additionally, the Message+ app will be completely removed from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store, so you won’t be able to download or reinstall it in the future.

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Pros and cons of switching to Google Messages

Pros:

• Better emoji support and more GIF options
• Enhanced 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 accustomed to the Message+ interface
• No automatic transfer of message history from Message+ to Google Messages
• Need for manual intervention to preserve old messages before the switch
• Possible loss of message history if proper steps are not taken before exiting Message+
• Required to use third-party backup apps or manual screenshots to save important conversations

How to get to Google Messages

Verizon recommends moving your messages to Google Messages once the Messages+ app is closed. This only applies to Android users and below are the steps to do this.

• Download the Google Messages app from the Google Play Store if you don’t already have it.
• Open the Google Posts app.
• When you first open the app, you can make Google Messages your default texting app by tapping it 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

It’s important to note that when you switch to Google Messages, your message history from Message+ will not be transferred automatically. You’ll need to take additional steps to keep your old messages, such as using a third party backup app or manually save important conversations.

Unfortunately, there’s also no official way to save old messages directly from the Verizon Message+ app to Google Messages. To keep your message history, you may need to use third party backup apps or manually take a screenshot of important conversations before closing the app.

Google Messages Alternatives

Google’s data sharing policies may deter some of you from switching to Google Messages. I’ve even received emails from people asking for 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 keeping your data safe. I have provided Detailed instructions on how to get started with these apps can be found here. While they’re 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 send text messages.

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Beware of scammers when switching to another app

When switching to a new messaging app, it is essential that you remain vigilant against scammers who may try to take advantage of your switch. Scammers often target users during app changes and use various tactics to gain access to personal information or trick you into downloading malicious software.

Scammers may send you messages that look like they are from your new messaging app, asking you to verify your account or provide personal information. Always check the sender’s address and do not click on suspicious links.

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

Kurt’s most important takeaway

Verizon’s Message+ has been a popular default texting app for many of us. However, it lacks several features that modern messaging apps offer, making shutting down a little less of a pain. For a better experience, you can easily switch to Google Messages or any other messaging app of your choice. Just be careful with it phishing links while using these messaging apps, as scammers often target users during transitions.

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