The Samsung Galaxy S24 android phone, part of the popular Galaxy series that came before the latest S25 series, has been in discussions among users for some features and functionalities that are different from the previous models. This article will go over some of the problematic issues reported by users and provide insights on potential solutions.
1. QR Code Scanning and URL Preview: In this regard, many users noted that, unlike the case with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, in this model, users cannot view the full URL of a QR code before opening it; thus, this used to be a feature but is no longer available with a move away from safety mode for many. There is no drop down button in the QR-code interface to view the URL. Even the Google Lens app, for example, only shows the first part of a URL, which is still not safe enough considering how easy it would be to modify, for example, an X.com social media link into sending users to whatever website they want—be it sites with malicious malware or viruses. Note: This issue was discovered on the T-mobile firmware using the January, 2025 Android security patch update.
Solution: While this feature is not supported via the native camera app, one will be able to download third-party QR code-scanning apps for URL preview. One such app mentioned is the “QR & Barcode Scanner,” although it comes with advertisements. Users may have to wait and see if a future Android update resolves this QR code reader security issue.
2. Messaging App Issues: Many are complaining of being limited to Google Messages, where texting to a business email address has limitations in content and text sent. Also faced with not being able to send texts at all with Samsung Messages app.
Partial Solution: Disabling RCS (Rich Communication Services) may fix part of the problem, but then that will cause RCS group chat removal after 30 days. But only Google messages uses RCS features, and some phone users must have it enabled to receive text messages.
To disable RCS, you’ll need to open the Google Messages app > Set it to default for SMS > click on upper right for your account > go to Messages settings > RCS chats > disable “Turn on RCS chats.” Then, go to Samsung Messages app and switch back to making it your default SMS app.
A solution wouldn’t work for not being able to send messages, in Samsung Messages app > three dots menu > settings > more settings > text messages > message center.
That is because the message center number is greyed out and one cannot change it. Clearing the messaging app data, however, solves the issue and automatically resets the message center number to an appropriate one. And don’t worry; clearing Samsung Message’s app data doesn’t delete any of your SMS message history.
3. SMS 2FA Authentication Codes: One weird issue people have reported is that authentication codes, via SMS, come from contacts or old phone numbers that are no longer in your contacts list within the user’s phone—not dedicated 2FA numbers.
Solution: Clearing the data of the messaging app and or disabling RCS seems to fix this issue for some users. After these steps, SMS codes appear to come from the right dedicated numbers.
4. Messaging App Compatibility: It has been reported by users that enabling RCS in Google Messages can block sent messages from going through in the Samsung Messages app.
Solution: Using the default Android messaging app or Google Messages with RCS enabled seems to be the most reliable option. For those preferring Samsung Messages, keeping RCS disabled in Google Messages is necessary. If that doesn’t work, clear the Samsung Messages app data in settings > apps > Messages app > storage > clear data.
Conclusion: The Samsung Galaxy S24 has a lot of innovative features, but many users have experienced a learning curve adjusting to changes from previous models. Most of the problems have workarounds or solutions, though they may take some getting used to in changing your habits or installing third-party apps. With any new technology, it’s most likely that future updates will iron out some of these wrinkles.
