Messages Keeps Stopping on Samsung S7: Fixes

If your Samsung Galaxy S7 shows the error “Messages keeps stopping,” the fix is usually clearing the app’s cache and data, updating the app, or checking for a system update. This guide walks you through those steps in order, from the quickest fix to more involved solutions, so you can get your text messaging working again.

Why This Error Happens

The “Messages keeps stopping” error is a common Android crash message. It means the default SMS/Messaging app on your S7 has encountered a problem that caused it to close unexpectedly. This can happen for several reasons:

• Corrupted cache data: The app stores temporary files to speed up loading. If these files become corrupted, the app can crash.
• Software bugs: A recent app update or Android system update may have introduced a bug.
• Insufficient storage: If your phone’s internal storage is almost full, apps may not have enough space to run properly.
• Conflicts with other apps: A third-party texting app or a recent app install might be interfering with the default Messages app.
• Outdated software: Running an old version of Android or the Messages app can lead to compatibility issues.

Fix 1: Clear the Messages App Cache and Data

This is the most effective first step. It removes corrupted temporary files without deleting your text messages (clearing data will not delete your messages, but it will reset app preferences like notification sounds).

1. Open Settings on your S7.
2. Tap Apps (or Applications).
3. Scroll down and tap Messages (the default Samsung Messages app).
4. Tap Storage.
5. Tap Clear Cache.
6. Tap Clear Data (or Clear Storage), then confirm.
7. Go back to the home screen and open Messages again.

If the error persists, try the next fix.

Fix 2: Update the Messages App and Android System

Outdated software is a common cause of app crashes. Samsung regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve stability.

Update the Messages App

1. Open the Galaxy Store app.
2. Tap the Menu (three horizontal lines) and select Updates.
3. If Messages appears in the list, tap Update next to it.

Update Android System

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Software update (or About phone then Software update).
3. Tap Download updates manually (or Check for updates).
4. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Fix 3: Restart in Safe Mode to Check for App Conflicts

Safe mode temporarily disables all third-party apps. If the Messages app works fine in safe mode, a downloaded app is likely causing the conflict.

1. Press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears.
2. Tap and hold Power off until the Safe mode prompt appears.
3. Tap Safe mode and wait for the phone to restart. You’ll see “Safe mode” at the bottom left of the screen.
4. Open Messages and see if the error still occurs.

If the error is gone, a third-party app is the culprit. Restart your phone normally, then uninstall recently downloaded apps one by one (especially any texting, launcher, or battery-saver apps) until the error stops.

Fix 4: Check Storage Space

Low storage can cause apps to crash. The S7 needs a decent amount of free space to run smoothly.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Device maintenance (or Storage).
3. Check the available space. If it’s low (less than 1-2 GB), free up space by:
   • Deleting old photos and videos you no longer need.
   • Moving media to a microSD card (if you have one).
   • Clearing the cache of other large apps.
   • Uninstalling unused apps.

Fix 5: Reset App Preferences (Not Your Data)

This resets all app settings (permissions, defaults, notifications) to their factory state. It does not delete any personal data or apps.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps.
3. Tap the More menu (three dots) in the top right.
4. Tap Reset app preferences.
5. Tap Reset to confirm.

Fix 6: As a Last Resort — Factory Reset

If none of the above works, a factory reset will restore your phone to its original state. This erases everything on the phone, so back up your data first (photos, contacts, messages, etc.) using Samsung Smart Switch or Google backup.

1. Back up your data.
2. Open Settings.
3. Tap General Management (or Backup and reset).
4. Tap Reset.
5. Tap Factory data reset.
6. Tap Reset and then Delete all.

After the reset, set up your phone and test Messages before restoring your backup. If the error still appears after a factory reset, it may indicate a hardware issue or a deeper firmware problem, and you may need to contact Samsung support or a repair professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will clearing the Messages app data delete my text messages?

No. Clearing the cache and data of the Messages app does not delete your SMS/MMS messages. They are stored separately in the phone’s database. However, it will reset app settings like notification tones and custom backgrounds, and you may need to re-set your default messaging app.

Why does the error keep coming back after I clear the cache?

If the error returns shortly after clearing the cache, it usually means the problem is a persistent bug in the app or system software. Try updating the app and Android system. If that doesn’t help, a factory reset may be necessary.

Can I switch to a different texting app instead of fixing this one?

Yes. You can download a third-party SMS app like Google Messages, Textra, or Pulse from the Google Play Store. After installing, open the app and set it as your default SMS app. This bypasses the Samsung Messages app entirely.

Is this error related to my SIM card?

Usually no. The “Messages keeps stopping” error is an app-level crash, not a network or SIM issue. However, if you also have trouble sending or receiving texts, you can try removing and reinserting your SIM card, or testing the SIM in another phone.

Will a factory reset definitely fix the problem?

A factory reset fixes most software-related issues, but it’s not guaranteed. If the problem is caused by a hardware fault (like failing memory) or a corrupted firmware that persists even after a reset, the error may remain. In that case, professional repair or flashing the firmware with Odin (for advanced users) might be needed.

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