You can’t react to a message in Samsung Messages: Samsung says the app does not support emoji reactions. To react on a Galaxy phone, use Google Messages instead. In Google Messages, tap and hold a message, then choose an emoji. Samsung confirms the limitation; Google explains how reactions work.
How to add, change, or remove a reaction
In Google Messages on Android:
- Open Google Messages and select the conversation.
- Tap and hold the message you want to react to.
- Choose an emoji from the reaction options.
To change your reaction, tap and hold that message again and choose another emoji. To remove it, tap and hold the message and select your highlighted reaction. These steps are documented by Google Messages support.
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Know which messages can receive reactions
Google lists SMS/MMS reactions as available in the USA, France, Canada, and Australia. For SMS/MMS, this feature applies to text—not media such as photos or videos received through MMS. RCS has separate availability requirements, so the same reaction behavior is not guaranteed for every message type or country. Google’s expressive-features guidance describes the SMS/MMS limits.
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You can open Google Messages and follow its prompt to set it as the default. Or use Android’s settings:
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- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
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- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Default apps > SMS app.
- Select Google Messages.
Samsung also describes selecting Google Messages and confirming Set as default. Labels and menu locations can vary by device and software version. See Google’s setup instructions and Samsung’s Messages guidance.
What happens to your conversations?
Samsung says messages and conversations transfer automatically when switching apps, but the process may take up to approximately 24 hours, depending on the amount of data. Samsung’s US transition notice provides this estimate.
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- 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
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If reactions or RCS features are unavailable
First check whether the message is SMS/MMS text in a supported country or an RCS message. RCS features depend on both participants having RCS enabled, and availability varies by region and carrier. In Google Messages, check the connection under Profile menu > Messages settings > RCS chats. Google advises against repeatedly turning RCS on and off; switching messaging apps can also affect message receipt. See the RCS FAQ and Google’s RCS setup guidance.
For Samsung Galaxy devices released before 2022, Samsung’s US transition guidance says RCS conversations may pause temporarily during the switch. It says they can resume if both people use Google Messages; SMS/MMS remains available during the pause. Samsung’s notice describes this transition.
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- 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
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- 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
Samsung Messages availability depends on your market and software
Samsung’s discontinuation notice is specific to the US: it says Samsung Messages was discontinued on Galaxy devices running Android 12 or newer starting July 6, 2026. The notice says devices on Android 11 or lower are not affected by that end of service. If you are outside the US, check local Samsung guidance rather than assuming the same policy applies. Availability and screens can also vary by carrier, device, and software version. See Samsung’s US notice and its discontinuation troubleshooting guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
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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