How do I fix a default SMS app that is not responding on a Samsung Galaxy S23?
Answer
If the SMS app on a Galaxy S23 freezes or will not become the default, set the default from Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > SMS app instead of relying on in-app prompts. Clear defaults on Samsung Messages if needed, then select Google Messages from that system screen.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Clearing app storage for a messaging app can delete locally stored texts that are not backed up.
Follow these steps
Open the system SMS default setting
Go to Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > SMS app.
You should see: You see a list of messaging apps that can be set as the default SMS app.
Select Google Messages from Settings
Tap Google Messages in that system list. Do not rely only on a Set as default prompt inside the Messages app.
You should see: Google Messages is marked as the default SMS app.
Clear a stuck Samsung Messages default if needed
If the default will not change, open Settings > Apps > Samsung Messages, tap Set as default if shown, then tap Clear defaults. Return to Choose default apps > SMS app and select Google Messages again.
You should see: Samsung Messages no longer holds the default, and Google Messages becomes the SMS app.
Force stop a frozen messaging app
If Messages still says not responding, open Settings > Apps > Messages or Google Messages, tap Force stop, reopen the app, and send a test text.
You should see: The SMS app opens normally and can send or receive a test message.
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Extra tips
What to look for: An SMS app that is not responding, repeated prompts that never change the default, or Settings still listing Samsung Messages as the SMS app.
Before you change anything: Note whether you want Google Messages or Samsung Messages as the final default. Avoid clearing message app storage until the default switch is tried, because that can remove local SMS data. Confirm you are changing defaults on your Galaxy S23, not another phone. Never share account passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers.