How to Use Messaging Apps You Don't Have on Android

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

You can choose to get messages that are sent to you from messaging apps that you don't have. You get these messages as notifications. You can reply from the notifications that show up on your phone.

This guide will show you how.

Some of these steps work only on Android 8.0 and up.

2. Preview Messages

Turn On App Preview Messages

1. Swipe down from the top edge of your Android device's screen to see the Notification shade.
   

1. Swipe down a second time for the full Quick Settings shade. Select the Settings icon near the top right.
   

1. Tap Google.
   

1.  
2. Tap App Preview Messages.
   

1. Turn on App Preview Messages.
   

1. Enter your phone number. Tap Verify.
2. You'll get a text message with a PIN. If needed, enter that PIN.

Turn Off App Preview Messages

1. Swipe down from the top edge of your Android device's screen to see the Notification shade.
   

1. Swipe down a second time for the full Quick Settings shade. Select the Settings icon near the top right.
   

1. Tap Google.
   

1.  
2. Tap App Preview Messages.
   

1. To turn off all apps, turn off App Preview Messages.
   

1. To turn off one app, under "Connected apps," turn off the app.
   

3. Reply to Preview Messages

1. Tap the notification.
   

1. Tap Reply.
   

1. Enter your reply.
   

1. Tap Send.