This quick guide explains how to replace the Pixel 2 text messaging app. While some owners enjoy Google’s Android Messages app that comes with the phone, it has a few issues. Additionally, some users will choose alternatives with more options from the Google Play Store.
All you have to do is download a new text messaging app from the Play Store and set it as your default text program. Then the phone uses this text only app instead of Google.
We have gathered a list of the best text app alternatives for Android in the link above. Start there and download one, then read the quick and simple instructions on how to replace it.
Google’s Android Messages app is pretty good and comes on most stock Android devices. While it has some neat features like PC messaging, it also has a lot of issues. It keeps freezing or crashing and doesn’t offer much customization. If you want more options, controls or features, try one of the many alternatives.
How to Change Pixel 2 Text Message App
First go to Google Play Store and download a new text app. Textra is my favourite, Chomp is popular and GoSMS is pretty good too. Some of these apps will walk you through our steps below, but if not, here’s how to set up your next text app.
It’s really simple. All you do here is tell the phone which text messaging app to use. That way, you won’t get two notifications for every new message you receive. You won’t have to deal with Google’s buggy Android Messages app anymore. Every message you send or receive uses the app you set as your default messaging client.
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Once you set your new app for text messaging, open it and it should instantly transfer all your text messages. You will not lose anything. It may take a minute if you have a lot of stuff, so give it a second.
Additionally, when you first open many apps like Textra, there will be a large button at the bottom. We basically do the work for you so you don’t have to scroll through settings or follow our steps detailed above.
From here on out this is the only text app that can send and receive text messages or alert you. If you chose Textra (or others), you can greatly customize the experience. You can change the font, style, colors, balloon colors and even the notification icon. Or customize each contact on your phone to have their own notification sound, icon and color. This is a level of customization that Google’s Messages app doesn’t offer, so most people would rather use something else.
If you’re having issues with the Pixel 2 before you go, read our guide on issues and fixes.
