7 Best Texting Apps for Android 2026

Texting remains one of the easiest and fastest ways to stay connected, but not all messaging apps are created equal. Android users have access to a wide variety of texting apps that go beyond simple SMS, offering features like group chats, end-to-end encryption, voice and video calling, and rich media sharing. Explore the best texting apps for Android, as we’ve rounded up the top-rated options that combine speed, security, and customization.

Top 7 Best Android SMS Apps for Texting

Texting apps enhance communication beyond stock SMS, offering RCS for iMessage-like features. Whether you’re looking for a privacy-focused messenger, a feature-packed chat app, or a simple SMS alternative, these apps will keep your conversations seamless and reliable.

1. Google Messages

Google Messages is the default messaging app for many Android devices, supporting RCS for rich features like high-resolution media and reactions. It includes AI-powered replies and spam protection, with end-to-end encryption for RCS chats.

Available for free and sometimes pre-installed in phones, it seamlessly integrates with the Google ecosystem for web messaging. Users love the clean UI and bubble notifications. No customization options, such as themes, but reliability is top-notch.

• Download Link: Google Messages

2. Textra SMS

Textra SMS offers extensive customization with themes, fonts, and bubble styles. It supports RCS and quick replies from notifications. Free with IAP for ad removal, it’s lightweight and fast. Users appreciate the emoji plugin and scheduled messages.

The latest updates enhance dark mode and GIF search functionality. No web sync, but privacy features like passcode lock stand out. Perfect for users wanting a personalized texting experience without bloat.

• Download Link: Textra SMS

3. Pulse SMS

Pulse SMS emphasizes web and multi-device sync, with end-to-end encryption for secure chats. It supports RCS and message archiving. Available for free with a premium version for unlimited backups. Users appreciate the private box for conducting hidden conversations and scheduling delayed sending. The latest updates add theme syncing across devices. No built-in spam filter, but integration with Google works well.

• Download Link: Pulse SMS

4. Chomp SMS

Chomp SMS offers emojis, blocking features, and backups, along with support for quick replies and MMS messaging. Users appreciate the theme engine and PIN lock. The latest updates have enhanced RCS compatibility. Unfortunately, it lacks any AI features.

• Download Link: Chomp SMS

5. Handcent Next SMS

Handcent Next SMS offers features such as customizable fonts, a privacy box, and eCards. It supports RCS (Rich Communication Services) and voice input. A free version is available, offering extensive customization options. Users appreciate the pop-up reply feature and group messaging. While there is no web version, the cloud backup is reliable.

• Download Link: Handcent Next SMS

6. QKSMS

QKSMS is an open-source messaging app featuring material design. It supports backup options and message blocking. The app is free, ad-free, and lightweight. Users appreciate its clean user interface and night mode. Recent updates have improved RCS functionality.

• Download Link: QKSMS

7. Mood Messenger

Mood Messenger offers bubbles, GIFs, and dark mode, and it supports dual SIM and customization. Available in Free and paid versions, users like the mood-based themes and smart replies.

• Download Link: Mood Messenger  

Conclusion

Texting apps for Android have evolved significantly, incorporating RCS for enhanced messaging features such as read receipts and high-quality media sharing, addressing the needs of over 3.3 billion Android users worldwide, where the OS holds a 71% market share.

With SMS/MMS still at the core, but RCS adoption reaching 80% in supported regions, these apps handle 1.2 trillion global texts annually, a 15% increase from 2024, driven by integration with AI for smarter replies and enhanced security.

Apps like Google Messages boast over 1 billion downloads, reflecting the category’s boom—messaging apps saw 150 billion downloads in 2025 alone. We’ve selected based on ratings (4.4+ on Google Play), downloads (10M+), features like RCS and customization, and compatibility with Android 15. Most are free, with premium options available for ad-free experiences.