Google Messages could soon integrate with Samsung Finder, the system-wide search tool found on handsets such as the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Code discovered in the latest Google Messages beta suggests that Finder may eventually be able to search through text conversations stored in Google’s messaging app, a capability the Pixel 11 series already offers through its own search feature.
The relevant code appears in Google Messages beta version 20260921. At present, Google Messages does not feature in Finder’s list of supported apps, which indicates that this is preparatory groundwork for a future update rather than something users can enable today.
What the beta code reveals
The findings point to Samsung’s Finder (formerly known as S Finder) being given the ability to search conversations held within Google’s texting application. As with any feature identified in an APK teardown, there is no guarantee it will reach a public release. However, Google and Samsung frequently collaborate on this type of integration, which raises the likelihood of it progressing beyond the beta stage.
If the feature does ship, users would be able to type a name or phrase into Finder and go directly to the relevant message, without first opening Google Messages and searching within the app.
Why some Galaxy owners lost text search
Samsung moved its US users to Google Messages and retired its own Samsung Messages app. Finder could previously search through texts held in Samsung’s app, but it has no connection to Google Messages, leaving those who searched conversations via Finder unable to do so after the switch.
Samsung is playing catch-up in this area. The Pixel 11 series launched with a new Pixel search app that can surface text messages, emails and photos directly from the app drawer’s search bar. That same app also appeared on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra, meaning some foldable owners may already have an alternative. Apple’s Spotlight search has drawn results from apps such as Messages on the iPhone for even longer.
The users likely to benefit most are US Galaxy owners who relied on Finder before Samsung Messages was discontinued, along with anyone who purchased a newer Galaxy phone shipping with Google Messages as the default. For those who prefer not to wait, the search bar inside Google Messages continues to perform the task, albeit with a couple of additional taps.
This addition is a modest one compared with the wider redesign spotted in the beta previously. Finding a text without first locating the correct app is the kind of small convenience that can quickly become a habit. Google Messages does not currently appear in Finder’s supported apps list, and the feature remains confined to beta code at this stage.
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Image: phonearena.com
