To react to a message on a Samsung phone, first check which messaging app you’re using. In Google Messages, touch and hold a message, then tap an emoji. Samsung Messages does not support message reactions, according to Samsung’s US support guidance.
React to a message in Google Messages
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Open Google Messages and select the conversation.
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Touch and hold the message you want to react to.
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When the reaction row appears, tap an emoji.
This adds an emoji reaction to that specific message; it is different from typing and sending an emoji as a new text. Google documents the touch-and-hold gesture in its instructions for expressive features in Google Messages.
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Change or remove a reaction
Touch and hold the message again. Tap another emoji to change your reaction, or tap your highlighted reaction to remove it. You can change or remove only your own reaction. In a group conversation, tap the reaction group to see who reacted.
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What if you’re using Samsung Messages?
Samsung says that Samsung Messages does not support reactions such as a thumbs-up or heart; Google Messages does. If you touch and hold a message in Samsung Messages and no reaction choices appear, the app lacks this feature. Sending an emoji in the compose box is possible, but it creates a new message rather than reacting to the original one.
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If Google Messages is available for your device and market, you can switch to it as the default SMS app. Samsung’s US transition instructions are to open or download Google Messages, choose the option to switch or set it as the default SMS app, select Google Messages, and confirm. Exact menus and availability can vary by device, software version, and market. See Samsung’s current US transition information for applicable details.
Why the reaction option may be missing
The conversation is in the other app
“Messages” may mean Samsung Messages or Google Messages. Check the app name or icon: Samsung Messages does not offer reactions, while Google Messages provides them where the message type and service support the feature.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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The message is SMS or MMS
Google says SMS/MMS reactions are available in the United States, France, Canada, and Australia. For SMS/MMS, reactions work on text messages, not photos or videos received through MMS. These geographic and message-type limits do not describe RCS conversations.
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RCS availability depends on the device and carrier, and everyone in a conversation needs RCS enabled to use RCS features. Availability can also vary by region or carrier. Google’s RCS messaging information explains eligibility and setup.
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- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
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To check the connection in Google Messages, tap your profile picture or initial, then Messages settings and RCS chats. The status will indicate whether RCS is connected or unsupported, or whether there is a connection problem. If it is not working, Google recommends confirming Google Messages is the default messaging app, checking your internet connection, reviewing the RCS status, and updating the app. Follow Google’s RCS troubleshooting guidance. Google cautions against casually turning RCS off and back on; doing so can remove you from group chats.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which app should you use?
| App | Message reactions | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Messages | Not supported, according to Samsung’s US support guidance. | Typing an emoji sends a new message; it does not react to an existing one. |
| Google Messages | Supported where the message type and service allow it. | Touch and hold a message, then choose a reaction. SMS/MMS and RCS have different availability limits. |
Samsung’s app guidance is for the US, and its transition information is time-sensitive. Whether Google Messages is available and can be set as the default depends on your device, software, and market.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
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- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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