In a rather unsurprising move, Verizon Messages (Message+) is shutting down in November and Android users are encouraged to use Google Messages instead.
Verizon Messages (Message+) dates back to 2011 with features like “group chats with up to 250 people,” location sharing, cross-device (smartphone, tablet, and computer) sync, HD voice calling, driving mode, and even the ability to “send an eGift card right through text message” at one point.
Now anyone can download and chat with Verizon Messages, even non Verizon customers (available on compatible devices).
If you want a trip down memory lane, browse the screenshots from a Droid, and don’t miss Honeycomb…
On Wednesday, Verizon started the process of shutting down the application with a full deprecation by November 7, 2024. At that time:
- “You won’t be able to use the Message+ app to send and receive messages.”
- “Any Message+ messages you previously scheduled to be sent on or after 11/7/24 will not be sent.”
- “…your email alias functionally will no longer work when Message+ is discontinued.”
Practically, the end user impact should be fairly minimal, though the Verizon client has amassed over 100 million downloads on the Play Store.
In shutting down Message+, the carrier says “Rich Communications Service (RCS) provides a more interactive and modern messaging experience in Google Messages,” with the app “now preloaded on all Verizon Android devices.”
This follows Samsung migrating users on older devices away from its own app to Google Messages in recent weeks.
More on Google Messages:
- Gemini in Google Messages sends out welcome message
- Google Messages Magic Rewrite tweak gives you a slightly bigger text field
- Google working on RCS encryption between Android and iPhone
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