Switching guide

Switching from Samsung Messages to ZenSMS

ZenSMS gives Samsung and Android users a focused SMS/MMS app for organizing text messages into folders, blocking spam, importing existing messages, and keeping the inbox local-first.

ZenSMS is not affiliated with Samsung or Samsung Messages. This guide is for users comparing SMS apps and planning a manual switch.

What changes

ZenSMS becomes your default SMS app so it can receive and manage messages.
Your existing Android SMS database can be imported into ZenSMS.
System folders organize messages into Personal, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions.
Custom folders and rules are available with ZenSMS Premium.
SMS and MMS continue to use your carrier. RCS behavior depends on carrier and platform services outside ZenSMS.
ZenSMS does not require a cloud account and does not upload your inbox to a ZenSMS server.

Switching steps

Install ZenSMS from Google Play.
Open ZenSMS and set it as the default SMS app when Android asks.
Import your existing messages.
Send a test SMS to a trusted contact.
Send or receive a test MMS if you use photos, videos, or group conversations.

MMS and mobile data

MMS often needs mobile data even when Wi-Fi is connected. If picture or group messages do not download, check mobile data, carrier APN settings, background data, and battery restrictions for ZenSMS.

RCS note

ZenSMS is an SMS/MMS app. You do not need to turn RCS off just to install or test. If messages stop reaching you after you switch, Google recommends turning RCS chats off. See the Google Messages switching guide.

Need help?

Email support@zensms.app with your phone model, Android version, carrier, and what is not working.

If you are coming from Google Messages instead, read switching from Google Messages.