Set the default SMS app in Android
You can also set other messengers as the standard SMS app on your Android smartphone. For example, on Android 4.4 you are no longer dependent on hangouts.
Android: Set the new SMS app as the default
SMS all-rounders like Handcent SMS can be installed on your smartphone with just a few touches, but you can still receive new messages with the standard app from the factory settings. But you can easily change that:
- First find the new SMS app in the Playstore and install the Android tool.
- Then open the "Settings" app on your smartphone.
- In the "Wireless & networks" tab, you have to open the full menu via "more".
- Here you will find the "Standard SMS app" option. If you tap this, you can set the app you just installed as the default.
The instructions are based on Android 4.4.3, deviations from other versions are possible. The new sayHEY messenger is also a good SMS app. In our WhatsApp vs. sayHey comparison we show how dangerous the newbie WhatsApp can get.