Apple is said to be actively working on enhancing the texting experience between iPhones and Android devices by incorporating the RCS (Rich Communication Services) protocol in 2024. This new RCS standard, in conjunction with iMessage, is set to introduce various messaging features, such as read receipts, typing indicators, the capability to share high-quality images and videos, and more. RCS is designed to function over mobile data or Wi-Fi. Android phones and carriers already support the RCS messaging standard, and the feature is expected to reach iPhone models through a software update next year.
According to a statement from an Apple spokesperson, as reported by 9to5Mac, the iPhone is slated to gain RCS support starting next year. The spokesperson's statement reads, "Later next year, we will be adding support for RCS Universal Profile, the standard as currently published by the GSM Association. We believe RCS Universal Profile will offer a better interoperability experience when compared to SMS or MMS. This will work alongside iMessage, which will continue to be the best and most secure messaging experience for Apple users." Further inquiries have been made to Apple for additional comments.
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The RCS feature is set to launch on iPhone models through a software update next year, bringing a host of iMessage-style features to messaging between iPhone and Android users, including read receipts and typing indicators.
Additionally, users can share and receive high-resolution photos and videos between iPhone and Android devices using the new protocol. The adoption of RCS on iPhone models will also enable location sharing in text threads and efficient operation of group chats. Unlike regular SMS, RCS can function over cellular and Wi-Fi, with RCS messages potentially being displayed in green, akin to SMS messages.
Despite Apple's previous delays in adopting the RCS standard endorsed by the GSM Association, the feature has already been embraced by Android phones and carriers globally. The integration of RCS on iPhones is anticipated to create a more balanced communication experience between Android and iPhone models. However, iMessage will continue to remain exclusive to Apple devices.
In response to Apple's announcement, Google's Senior Vice President of Platforms and Ecosystems, Hiroshi Lockheimer, expressed enthusiasm on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Everybody should have secure and modern messaging without worrying what kind of phone they're texting to. So glad to see Apple joining our ongoing work with the GSMA on RCS to make texting better for all!"
This revelation coincides with Carl Pei-led Nothing's recent announcement that its Android phones will support iMessage through a new feature.