How to Change the Default SMS App on Android

September 12, 2026 · 2 min read

If you want to use an SMS app that blocks spam, you need to make it your default SMS app. Android only lets the default SMS app block and delete messages.

Why does it have to be the default?

The system delivers an incoming message only to the default app and gives only that app permission to write to the message database. This is what allows spam to be filtered before it is written to the inbox.

Changing it step by step

1. Open the new SMS app and tap “Make default SMS app” in the setup wizard.
2. In the window that opens, choose the app and confirm.
3. Alternative: go to Settings → Apps → Default apps → SMS app.

The “access denied” warning (Android 13 and up)

If you installed the app outside Google Play (from an APK), Android restricts SMS access for your safety the first time. This is not a bug; it is an operating-system rule. To fix it:

1. Close the error window.
2. Open Settings → Apps → HiSMS.
3. From the ⋮ (three dots) menu at the top right choose “Allow restricted settings”.
4. Go back to the app and repeat the make-default step.

If the option doesn’t appear, first try making the app default once; the option shows up after that attempt. This step isn’t needed when you install from Google Play.

How do you go back to your old app?

Just choose your old app from the same setting (Default apps → SMS app). Your messages stay in the system, so nothing is lost.

What happens to my messages?

Your existing messages are not deleted; the new app uses the same message database. Messages caught as spam wait in quarantine for 24 hours.

For detailed steps, see the HiSMS install guide.