Verizon Message+ app lives on a little longer amid complaints that Google Messages is inferior

Verizon caused a minor uproar last month when it announced it would shut down its Message+ app on November 7. The carrier has now moved back the date on which the app will be discontinued.

Previously known as Verizon Messages, Message+ is an app that came pre-installed on Verizon-locked devices. With most messaging apps having adopted the Rich Communication Services (RCS) protocol that offers improved texting features, Verizon doesn't want to hold back its users from enjoying the more modern messaging experience offered by Google Messages and Apple's Messages.

The company has updated its website to let its customers know that the shutdown process has begun and the app will be fully discontinued on 9 December. After that, you won't be able to use the Message+ app to send or receive text messages. Any messages you have scheduled to be sent on or after that date will not be sent. The app will also be removed from Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Verizon recommends that its subscribers who use the Message+ app either switch to Google Messages or Apple's Messages. You will also be able to view your Message+ history on these apps.

While those who have not used Message+ may think that the app going away is no big deal, some long-time users who love the app for its customizability are upset that it's going away. Others just fear change and hope to continue using the app for as long as they can. It also works great for people who have both Android and iOS devices and want their messages synced across all devices. Some view Google Messages as an inferior app with glitches. And, of course, there is the big issue of not wanting to trust Google with everything.