Verizon Messages (often referred to as Message+) was the proprietary texting application offered by Verizon Wireless. It was primarily known for its ability to sync text message conversations (SMS/MMS) across multiple devices, including phones, tablets, and computers.
However, Verizon Messages (Message+) is no longer supported as of December 2024 (or earlier, depending on the device and region). Verizon has discontinued the app and is actively recommending that customers switch to modern, standardized messaging platforms that utilize Rich Communication Services (RCS) technology.
This article details the history and features of the Message+ app and provides clear guidance on the replacement messaging service recommended by Verizon.
The Purpose and Key Features of Verizon Messages (Message+)
Before its shutdown, the Message+ app was a robust option for Verizon customers, offering features beyond standard SMS/MMS.
Legacy Key Features
- Integrated Messaging: The primary feature that attracted users, allowing them to send and receive text messages tied to their main mobile number on up to five other devices (tablets, computers, etc.) using Wi-Fi, even if the primary phone was off.
- High-Resolution Media: The app was capable of sending and receiving higher-quality photos and videos than standard MMS, though still limited compared to modern IP-based messaging.
- Customization: Users enjoyed a variety of themes, colors, and bubble styles for personalizing the chat interface.
- Scheduled Messages: The ability to compose a message and schedule it to be sent at a future date and time.
- Voicemail Integration: Some versions of the app included Visual Voicemail features.
Why Verizon Discontinued the App
Verizon is moving toward the Rich Communication Services (RCS) standard, which is natively built into the Google Messages app (for Android) and now supported by Apple Messages (iMessage) since iOS 18. RCS provides the “enhanced” features (read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media) previously offered by Message+, but standardizes them across carriers, eliminating the need for a proprietary app.
The Recommended Switch: Google Messages (RCS)
Verizon now recommends that customers switch their default messaging app to Google Messages to take full advantage of modern features.
Key Benefits of Switching to Google Messages
| Feature | Verizon Messages (Message+) | Google Messages (RCS) |
| Cross-Carrier Advanced Features | Worked best Android-to-Android (on Verizon). | Works across all major carriers (including Android-to-iPhone in modern iOS versions). |
| High-Res Media | Limited capability. | High-resolution photo and video sharing. |
| Typing/Read Indicators | Available only within the app/Verizon network. | Standard features in all RCS chats. |
| Data Sync | Syncs SMS/MMS and media less than 5MB to the new app. | Seamlessly syncs conversations and media from your local storage. |
| Encryption | Standard SMS/MMS security. | Supports End-to-End Encryption for eligible RCS conversations. |
How to Switch to Google Messages (Android Users)
- Download/Open: Download or open the Google Messages app from the Google Play Store.
- Set as Default: The first time you open it, you will be prompted to make Google Messages your default SMS app. Tap “Set default SMS app.”
- Transfer: Your SMS/MMS history will automatically sync from your local device storage to the new app.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
What happened to my old messages and scheduled texts?
- SMS/MMS History: Your standard text messages and media (under 5MB) were saved locally on your phone and should be accessible in the new default messaging app (Google Messages or your phone’s stock app).
- Scheduled Messages: Any messages scheduled in the Message+ app that had not been sent before the shutdown were not delivered and are lost. You must reschedule them in your new app.
My texts aren’t sending after the shutdown. What do I do?
If you are experiencing basic SMS/MMS failures, try these general troubleshooting steps:
- Deregister iMessage (if switching from an iPhone): If you moved from an iPhone to an Android, you must deregister iMessage from Apple’s website to ensure messages are routed via SMS/MMS instead of an inactive iMessage account.
- Toggle Wi-Fi Calling/Mobile Data: Temporarily turn off and on Wi-Fi and Mobile Data.
- Call Carrier Support: Contact Verizon’s technical support and request that your SMS/MMS features be “reprovisioned” or “re-synced with billing” to resolve any potential network routing errors.
Can I still sync my messages across devices with Google Messages?
Yes, but the process may differ from the old Message+ app. Google Messages supports multi-device use through a web interface and on compatible tablets. However, the multi-device support is generally less seamless than the older, proprietary Message+ feature, as it relies on the RCS standard.
This video provides a great overview of the features Verizon Messages Plus had before the switch to Google Messages.
