The HowTo NetworkTech

How to change your default SMS app on Android

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Android 15 - Pixel 9
You will need
Android device, Target SMS application installed from Play Store

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open system settings

    Unlock your device and navigate to the Settings application. You can find this by swiping up on the home screen to open the app drawer or by tapping the gear icon in the Quick Settings panel.

  2. 30 sec

    Locate Apps menu

    Scroll down the main Settings list and tap on 'Apps'. Depending on your specific Android skin, this may be labeled as 'Apps & notifications' or 'Manage apps'.

  3. 30 sec

    Access default apps settings

    Look for the entry labeled 'Default apps'. You may need to tap on 'See all apps' or 'Advanced' if it is not immediately visible on the main screen.

  4. 30 sec

    Select SMS app

    Find the 'SMS app' option in the list. Tapping this will display a screen showing your currently selected messaging application and a list of other compatible apps installed on your device.

  5. 30 sec

    Set new default

    Tap the radio button or the name of the new application you wish to set as your primary SMS client. A confirmation dialog may appear; select 'Set as default' to finalize the change.

    Note: Verify that your new app supports RCS if you require encrypted messaging features.