Android phones often have many preinstalled apps right out of the box. Some apps are bloatware, the manufacturers make some to unlock specific functionality in their phones, and some are just different takes on various system apps.

In this article, we’re talking about a package called Com.Samsung.Android.Messaging that you’ll find on Samsung phone, what it is, what it does, whether or not it’s safe to use and everything else you need to know. 

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Com.Samsung.Android.Messaging explained

The package Com.Samsung.Android.Messaging is the preinstalled Samsung Messages app that replaces the default Android SMS app. Remember, though, that since it’s not a system app, it isn’t the default SMS app on your Android phone, and you can choose between the default app or the Samsung version. 

It does have some additional features over the default Android SMS app, including

• Custom ringtones for message threads.
• Message customisation, including themes and custom fonts.
• Option to change the font size.
• Scheduled messages.
• Option to mute/unmute a thread.
• Customisable profile pictures for SMS threads.

Is it safe?

It’s common practice for threat actors and malware developers to disguise phone malware as a legitimate app or service to hide its true intentions. However, since the package name clearly states that Samsung makes the app, it’s free from malware and safe to use. 

The app does require some permissions to work properly on your device. Considering it’s a messaging app, you must provide the following permissions.

• Microphone
• Camera
• Storage
• SMS
• Contacts
• Phone 
• Location

Also read: What is com.android.gallery3d?

Can you remove this app?

Uninstalling a preinstalled app isn’t always as simple as other third-party apps that you might have downloaded from the Google Play Store. However, you can disable the app like you would with the usual Android system apps.  

You’ll need root access to your phone to delete the package. However, if you don’t want to use the app, you can simply set the Android SMS app as the default SMS app on your phone, clear out the data and cache for Samsung Messages and disable it to remove the icon from your app drawer. 

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