How to Change the Pixel 2 Text Message App

This quick guide explains how to change the Pixel 2 text message app. While some owners enjoy Google’s Android Messages app that comes with the phone, it does have a few problems. Additionally, some users will choose alternatives with more options from the Google Play Store.

All you need to do is download a new text message application from the Play Store and set it as your default text program. Then, the phone will only use that text app, instead of Google’s.

Read: 5 Best Text Message Apps for Android

We’ve gathered a list of the best text app alternatives for Android in the link above. Start there and download one, then read on for the quick and simple instructions on how to change it.

Google’s Android Messages app is pretty decent, and it comes on most stock Android devices. And while it has some neat features like texting from a PC, it also has a lot of problems. It constantly freezes or crashes, and it doesn’t offer a lot of customization. If you want more options, controls or features, try one of the many alternatives.

How to Change the Pixel 2 Text Message App

First, navigate to the Google Play Store and download a new text app. Textra is my favorite, Chomp is a popular, and GoSMS is pretty decent too. Some of these apps will walk you through our steps below, but if not, here’s how to setup your next text app. 

Instructions

• Download a new Text Messaging App
• Go to Settings by hitting the gear-shaped button in the notification bar
• Select Apps & notifications
• Scroll down and tap on Default Apps
• Tap on SMS app, and choose the app you’d like to use

It’s really simple. All you’re doing here is telling the phone which text message application to use. That way you’re not getting two notifications for each new message you receive. Now you won’t have to deal with Google’s buggy Android Messages app. Every message you send or receive will use the app you just set as your default messenger client.

Read: 15 Best Google Pixel 2 Cases

More Information

Once you set your new app for text messaging, open it up, and it should instantly transfer all of your text messages. You won’t lose anything. If you have a lot it may take a minute, so give it a second.

Additionally, many apps like Textra will have a big Set As Default button at the bottom when you first open it. Basically doing the work for you so you don’t have to scroll through settings or follow our steps detailed above.  

Read: 10 Best Google Pixel 2 XL Screen Protectors 

From here on out this is the only text app that will be able to send, receive or alert you to text messages. If you chose Textra (or many others) you can heavily customize the experience. You can change the font, style, colors, bubble colors, and even the notification icon. Or, customize each contact in your phone to have their own notification sound, icon, and color. It’s a level of customization that Google’s Messages app doesn’t offer, which is why many choose to use something else.

Before you go, if you’re having problems with the Pixel 2 read our guide on problems and fixes.