Samsung is set to discontinue the Samsung News app on December 21, 2026, at 00:00 UTC, removing a familiar way for Galaxy users to catch daily headlines. The shutdown extends beyond the app itself, eliminating the home screen widget and the media page accessible via a left-screen swipe. Samsung has begun sending shutdown notices to users in India and South Korea, urging widget removal and confirming that all user data, including personal information and account profiles, will be erased post-shutdown.
Some data may be retained temporarily due to local legal mandates, but Samsung promises eventual deletion. Launched in April 2023 to succeed Samsung Free, the service joins a long line of rebranded feed services, following the trajectory of Samsung Daily and Bixby Home. With no direct replacement announced, Google Discover remains a likely alternative already available on Galaxy devices.
While notices are currently confirmed for India and South Korea, users in other markets should remain vigilant for future regional announcements. Samsung’s native news experience appears headed for its final headline as the company simplifies its software experience.
Source: Android Central · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing