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Verizon Message+ was discontinued in December 2024, so you no longer need to wait for a future shutdown. Verizon recommends Google Messages for Android and Apple Messages for iPhone and iPad. On Android, open Google Messages, choose it as your default SMS app when prompted, and tap Set as default. Verizon says locally stored SMS and MMS messages remain accessible in the replacement app, though some Message+ features may not carry over.
Choose the replacement for your device
| Device | Replacement | Setup guidance from Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| Android phone | Google Messages | Verizon publishes steps to select it as the default SMS app. |
| iPhone or iPad | Apple Messages | Verizon recommends the app but does not provide a separate migration sequence. |
Verizon’s Message+ support page states that the app was discontinued in December 2024. Use the replacement already suited to your device; you do not need a new phone or a paid migration tool to follow these instructions.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed) | $300.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Pink - Unlocked (Renewed) | $574.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Apple iPhone 15, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed) | $409.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed) | $262.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Apple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed) | $389.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Switch Message+ to Google Messages on Android
These are Verizon’s published Android steps. If Google Messages is not installed, download it using the option linked from Verizon’s support page, then follow the prompt in the app.
- Open Google Messages.
- When prompted, tap Set default SMS app.
- Select Google Messages. Verizon describes its icon as white with a blue conversation bubble.
- Tap Set as default.
- Optionally, move Google Messages to your home-screen dock for quicker access.
If the default-app prompt does not appear, Verizon’s cited instructions do not specify an alternate device-menu path. Menu labels and steps can vary by Android device, so consult the device maker’s guidance rather than assuming one universal path.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Use Apple Messages on iPhone or iPad
Verizon recommends Apple Messages for iPhone and iPad. Open the Messages app to continue messaging. Verizon’s instructions do not describe a separate iOS migration sequence or an import step.
What happens to your message history
Verizon says SMS and MMS messages previously available in Message+ remain in your device’s local storage and can be accessed from the replacement messaging app. Its RCS FAQ says Google Messages automatically syncs locally stored text messages and photos or videos smaller than 5 MB when switching from Message+ or Samsung Messages.
Rank #2
- 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1000nits (typ), 2000nits (HBM), 2556x1179px at 460ppi, 3561mAh Battery
- 128GB 8GB RAM, Apple A18 (3nm), Hexa-core (2x4.04 GHz + 4x2.20 GHz), Apple GPU 5-core, 16‑core Neural Engine
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.6, wide + 12MP, f/2.2, ultrawide, Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9, wide, iOS 18, upgradable to iOS 18.5
- 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/32/34/38/39/40/41/42/48/53/66/71, 5G: n1/2/3/5/7/8/12/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/40/41/48/53/66/70/71/75/76/77/78/79 - Dual eSIM
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint., Etc.
This assurance is about locally stored SMS/MMS and the listed media behavior—not every item or setting in the old app. Verizon says enhanced groups and some Message+-specific features do not sync to Google Messages, so don’t assume group configuration or app-specific extras will transfer intact.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.RCS is optional context, not a setup requirement
RCS is a newer messaging standard that Verizon describes as adding high-resolution file sharing, improved group chats, typing indicators, read receipts, and emoji reactions. Verizon lists Android 5.0 or later and iOS 18 or later as eligible software versions for Verizon RCS; current versions of Google Messages and Apple Messages enable it by default. You do not need to enable RCS just to choose a default SMS app.
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Rank #3
- 6.1inch Super Retina XDR display. Aluminum with color-infused glass back. Ring/Silent switch
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A16 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
- Advanced dual-camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. 4X optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 26 hours video playback. USB C, Supports USB 2. Face ID
Verizon says RCS does not count against the texting plan, although data charges may apply. Availability and behavior can depend on compatible software and service.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, 800 nits (HBM), 1200 nits (peak), 2532x1170px at 460ppi, 4005mAh Battery
- 8GB RAM, Apple A18 6-core CPU (2 performance + 4 efficiency cores), Apple GPU 4-core, 16‑core Neural Engine
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.6, wide, Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9, wide, iOS 18.3.1, upgradable to iOS 18.5
- Connectivity: Global 4G LTE, Sub-6 GHz 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C, Wireless Charging (7.5W). (does not have mmWave 5G or MagSafe or physical SIM card) - Dual eSIM Only
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Straight Talk., Etc.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
- Product may come in generic Box.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
