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Verizon Messages (Message+) is a well-liked messaging app provided by the telecom big, however it is going to shut down subsequent month.
The app, which has over 250 million customers, permits you to sync your textual content conversations throughout all appropriate gadgets. Verizon Messages is separate out of your telephone’s different messaging apps, reminiscent of iMessage and Google Messages.
Once the app shuts down, you’ll want to modify to one other app to proceed sending and receiving messages. Here’s every thing you must know concerning the Message+ shutdown.
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The Message+ allowed customers to sync textual content conversations throughout appropriate gadgets. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Why is Message+ shutting down?
Verizon’s Message+ will absolutely shut down on Nov. 7, 2024, as a result of new Rich Communication Services (RCS) protocol. According to Verizon’s help web page, the app is being discontinued as a result of the corporate desires to offer “the best messaging experience.” Google Messages, which comes pre-installed on Android telephones, already provides this expertise because of RCS help. Additionally, beginning with iOS 18, iPhones will help the RCS protocol as effectively.
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So, what is RCS? It is a communication protocol commonplace for immediate messaging, which brings a great deal of helpful options. RCS messages permit you to ship high-resolution pictures and movies, share information, ship messages over Wi-Fi or cell knowledge, and extra. They additionally embrace learn receipts, typing indicators and the flexibility to talk in teams.
RCS messaging was beforehand restricted to Android-to-Android chats, however with iOS 18, Apple made iPhones appropriate with the protocol as effectively.
Users can put together for the app to close down. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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What will occur as soon as the app shuts down?
Once the app shuts down, you will not be capable to entry or use any of its options. If you nonetheless have it put in in your telephone, it’s a good suggestion to uninstall it to unencumber house and keep away from confusion. Any messages you’ve scheduled by way of Message+ which are set to be despatched after Nov. 7 won’t be delivered, that means you’ll want to search out an alternate approach to ship these messages.
Plus, the Message+ app might be utterly faraway from each the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, so you received’t be capable to obtain or reinstall it sooner or later.
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How to maneuver to Google Messages
Verizon recommends you transfer your messages to Google Messages as soon as the Messages+ app shuts down. This solely applies to Android customers and under are the steps to do so.
- Download the Google Messages app from the Google Play Store if you don’t have it already.
- Open the Google Messages app.
- When you first open the app, make Google Messages your default SMS app by tapping Set default SMS app pop-up.
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Google Messages app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Google Messages alternate options
Google’s data-sharing insurance policies could deter a few of you from switching to Google Messages. I’ve even acquired emails from individuals asking for different messaging apps. My high suggestions are Signal, WhatsApp and Telegram. Signal stands out as the best choice as a result of it is developed by a not-for-profit group and prioritizes retaining your knowledge safe. I’ve offered detailed directions on methods to get began with these apps right here. While all of them are free, the most important hurdle is convincing your family and friends to modify over. Unlike Message+, each the sender and receiver will need to have the app put in as a way to begin texting.
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Beware of scammers whereas switching to a special app
When transitioning to a brand new messaging app, it is important to remain vigilant in opposition to scammers who could attempt to exploit your change. Scammers typically goal customers throughout app modifications, utilizing numerous techniques to achieve entry to non-public info or trick you into downloading malicious software program.
Scammers could ship you messages that appear to be they’re out of your new messaging app, asking you to confirm your account or present private info. Always examine the sender’s tackle and keep away from clicking on suspicious hyperlinks.
The greatest approach to safeguard your self from malicious hyperlinks that set up malware, probably accessing your non-public info, is to have antivirus software program put in on all of your gadgets. This safety may alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, retaining your private info and digital belongings protected. Get my picks for one of the best 2024 antivirus safety winners on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS gadgets.
Kurt’s key takeaway
Verizon’s Message+ has been a preferred default texting app for many people. However, it lacks a number of options that fashionable messaging apps supply, making its shutdown a bit much less inconvenient. You can simply change to Google Messages or another messaging app of your selection for an improved expertise. Just be cautious of phishing hyperlinks whereas utilizing these messaging apps, as scammers typically goal customers throughout transitions.
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