They are alternatives to Google Messages, notwithstanding the fact that Google Messages offers a lot of appealing features and serves as an excellent messaging app for Android users.
However, if you prefer to avoid it or are concerned about sharing more data with Google, several open-source messaging apps provide solid alternatives.
These apps put your privacy and security first while still offering essential and helpful features.
Although there may not be as many open-source options for texting apps compared to other categories, you still have some excellent choices available.
Right Messages
Similar to Fossify apps, Goodwy’s Right suite of Android applications is a derivative of Simple Mobile Tools.
Included in this collection is the Right Messages app, an outstanding open-source messaging application. A key feature of this app is its design that closely resembles the iOS 16 version of Apple’s Messages app.
For those who appreciate the aesthetics of iOS or have recently transitioned from Apple’s platform, you’ll find its interface both familiar and reassuring.
However, it manages to offer distinct elements rather than being merely a complete imitation.
The app provides a range of customisation options to adjust the appearance of various elements.
You can choose different-coloured icons for individual contacts and modify the design of overflow icons and text message speech bubbles, among other tweaks.
Additionally, you have the option to import and export your SMS and MMS messages easily.
The app also offers extra features like blocking support, archiving capabilities, and password protection for added security, as well as the ability to select and copy portions of an SMS message.
Deku SMS
Deku SMS stands out because it provides end-to-end encryption, a feature not usually available in standard messaging apps.
Since SMS is normally unencrypted, Deku employs its own encryption to protect your messages.
However, this means that the recipient must also use Deku to benefit from encrypted communication; otherwise, they will receive your texts as regular unsecured messages if they don’t have Deku installed.
Another impressive feature of the Deku is its capability to send images via SMS messages, a function available exclusively between Deku users.
This is particularly noteworthy because Deku lacks built-in MMS support and does not rely on the internet for sending texts.
Additionally, you can sync and forward your messages to a custom cloud server. This means you’ll be able to access your messages even if you don’t have your phone with you.
Quik SMS
Quik SMS, a modern take on the cherished texting app QKSMS, is celebrated for its sleek and simple design.
Although it doesn’t offer extensive customisation features, it does provide various colour themes and automatic contact colouring.
The app covers all essential functions like SMS and MMS support, scheduled messaging, SMS backup and restore capabilities, as well as message blocking options.
Other noteworthy features include the ability to introduce a delay for sent messages, send voice notes, attach almost any type of file to your texts, and integrate with an external text-to-speech service.
Although the app lacks an abundance of flashy features, its straightforward approach is favoured by many users.
Fossify Messages
Fossify Messages an Alternatives to Google Messages, a component of the Fossify suite known for its robust open-source applications, is a straightforward and efficient messaging app that provides all the essential features you need.
It supports both SMS and MMS communication, allowing for peer-to-peer as well as group messages.
Additional functionalities include blocking messages from specific numbers or filtering out those containing certain words before they reach your inbox.
The app includes a built-in SMS backup feature that allows you to archive your conversations or transfer them to a new smartphone.
Additionally, you can personalise the app’s appearance with your favourite colours and enhance security by adding password protection for improved privacy.
Conclusion
Open-source messaging apps offer alternatives to Google Messages, focusing on privacy and security.
Right Messages, part of Goodwy’s Right suite of Android applications, is an excellent option with a design resembling Apple’s iOS 16 version.
It offers customisation options, easy import and export of SMS and MMS messages, blocking support, archiving capabilities, and password protection.
Deku SMS provides end-to-end encryption, allowing users to send images via SMS messages.
Quik SMS is a modern take on QKSMS, offering a sleek and simple design with various colour themes and automatic contact colouring.
It covers essential functions like SMS and MMS support, scheduled messaging, SMS backup and restore capabilities, and message blocking options.
Fossify Messages is a straightforward and efficient messaging app that supports both peer-to-peer and group messages and includes features like blocking messages from specific numbers or filtering out those containing certain words.
It also includes a built-in SMS backup feature and allows users to personalise the app’s appearance with their preferred colours.
