You may be thinking about change the application with which manage SMS messages en Android Lollipop Since you are not convinced by the one that comes by default in the new Google development or, perhaps, you want to eliminate the one you used from third parties since it finally does not satisfy your needs. Well, we explain how to do it.
The truth is that the application to do this that is included by default On Android, it's not particularly powerful, despite the changes it has seen in the latest versions released by the Mountain View company. However, despite this, many people decide to explore the options of Hangouts or, as we said before, some of the developments that exist in the Play Store.
The thing is that if you want Change which development handles SMS on Android Lollipop without having to install and uninstall the one you want to use, something that some users do to grant permissions in the process, we will show you some simple steps to follow To achieve the purpose of this article:
- Access the Settings system on Android Lollipop (one option for this is to use the gear icon when displaying the Notification Bar)
- In the Wireless and networks section, click on the option More
- Now you will see that there is an option called Default SMS appIf you select it, you will see the list of those that are compatible with the service and, therefore, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and that you have installed on your device.
In many cases, when installing a new SMS app The system will display a prompt to set it as default. If it doesn't appear or you dismissed it, the change is made from Settings as we have shown you.
Other ways to choose your default SMS app
Depending on the manufacturer or version, the route may vary slightly. A very common alternative is: Settings > Applications > Default applications > SMS application. You can also use the Settings search engine and type 'SMS Application' to go directly.
If you prefer to try options other than the system app, there are popular developments on Google Play such as GO SMS Pro o Textra SMS. Install them, open them and if they offer the option 'Set as default', confirm it from your own settings or from the system prompt.
Key settings in Google Messages that you should review
If you are going to use Google messages As a main app, it is advisable to adjust several sections to improve the experience.
- Notifications: Tap your profile picture > Settings > Notifications to turn on Received messages, mute sounds when sending or set reminders.
- Advanced: In Settings > Advanced Settings you can define Group messages (individual SMS responses), activate Download MMS automatically and allow downloading in roaming.
- Compatibility: active Use simple characters to avoid splitting SMS by accents or symbols. In Telephone You can check from which line the files are sent.
- Dark theme y readability: The dark theme depends on the Android version. For the font size Go to Device Settings > Accessibility > Text & display > Font size; for the display size, Settings > Accessibility > Text & display > Display size.
RCS vs. SMS: When to Disable Chat Features
Compatibility and reliability
International messaging
For numbers from other countries, not all operators support RCS. SMS They work on virtually any network, so they are an option more reliable if you travel or write abroad.
Battery and data
RCS uses mobile data or Wi-Fi and may consume more battery. If you are looking for efficiency, SMS does not require a data connection.
Personal preferences and congestion
There are those who prefer the simplicity of SMS. In addition, in congested networks (events, emergencies), SMS/A2P delivery is typically more consistent than RCS.
full compatibility
Any phone can receive SMS. For cases such as OTP and verifications, prioritize classic shipping if RCS gives you problems.
Categories and organization of conversations
You can manage your messages and separate them into categories. Press the more options icon at the top right to see:
- Highlighted events: messages marked as favorites.
- Archived: conversations you don't want to see in your main inbox.
- Spam and blocked: for unwanted senders.
- Images, Videos, Locations y Links: filter content by type.
Schedule messages and other useful features
In Google Messages you can schedule SMS to send them later (depending on version and availability). Open a conversation, type the text, press and hold the send button, and choose the date and time. You'll be able to edit, send o delete scheduled messages from the conversation.
You can also enlarge a message with a pinch gesture to read better and copy verification codes with a tap when they come to you from services and apps.
You can also enlarge a message with a pinch gesture to read better and copy verification codes with a tap when they come to you from services and apps.
Troubleshooting common problems
- RCS is still trying to be used: : wait a few minutes after deactivating it; restart the phone; try temporarily disabling it Wi-Fi and data to force SMS; remember that if the recipient has RCS active, the system may try again.
- Messages that don't go out: check permissions SMS in Settings > Apps > Messages; check that the chosen app is the one default.
- Clear cache and data (advanced users): Settings > Apps > Messages > Storage > Clear cache y Delete data. Caution: Deleting data may cause you to lose your in-app history.
Once this is done, you already know how it is possible to choose the development to manage SMS messages in Android Lollipop and, in this way, you will not have to do tedious installation and uninstallation tasks on your mobile device, which is always appreciated. You can learn other simple tricks for devices with the Google operating system in this section of our page; with these settings and recommendations, messaging will be more safe, Management and adapted to your preferences.


