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Google to ditch SMS support in Hangouts for Android effective May 22

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It looks like Google can't decide what route to take when it comes to Hangouts. The messaging service suffered many changes during the development cycle, so the fact that it's going to go through another one shouldn't surprise anyone.

However, this time Google has decided to ditch one of the features that made Hangouts a multipurpose messaging app. Although Google has yet to confirm the information, it appears that SMS support will be removed from Hangouts for Android.

Google had sent emails to G Suite administrators warning them that a message will appear to Hangouts users starting March 27, which will confirm SMS support will be completely removed from the Android app on May 22.

Last year, we announced several improvements to the most popular features of Google Hangouts, such as the new video meetings experience and better group chat messaging. As part of that ongoing effort, we will be removing carrier SMS text messaging from Hangouts on Android after May 22, 2017.


It appears though that Google Voice numbers will continue to be supported after May 22, as the change will only affect SMS messages sent and received from carrier phone numbers.

Starting March 27, Hangouts users on Android will be prompted to choose another default messaging application that's already installed on their smartphones. If none are available, then they will be immediately redirected to Google Play store to find another SMS messaging app they can use.

source: Reddit via AndroidPolice
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Cosmin Vasile Senior News Writer
Cosmin, a tech journalist with a career spanning over a decade, brings a wealth of experience to PhoneArena. His expertise lies in brands like Samsung and Nokia, and he has a keen interest in innovative technologies. After a brief stint in PR, Cosmin returned to tech journalism in 2016, committed to delivering clear and objective news. When he's not writing or appearing as a guest on TV and radio shows, Cosmin enjoys playing RPGs, watching Netflix, and nurturing his passion for history and travel.

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