Apple to bring RCS support for iPhones next year: Know what it is

Apple to bring RCS support for iPhones next year: Know what it is
HIGHLIGHTS

Apple could integrate the Rich Communication Services (RCS) by 2024 to improve the texting experience.

It's not confirmed whether Apple will introduce this alongside the iPhone 16 series or not.

RCS is a Google technology that handles features between Apple and Android on text messaging.

It hasn’t been long since Apple dropped the iPhone 15 series but the talks about next year’s iPhone 16 series have already started to make noise on the internet. Just like is the case with every other smartphone, rumours about the iPhone 16 series have started to pour in too and the chatter about the California-based tech giant is not dying. We now hear word that Apple might be working on strategies to make messaging between Apple and Android users more convenient. Let’s see what the chatter is all about.

Reports suggest that Apple could be integrating the Rich Communication Services (RCS) by 2024 to improve the texting experience between Apple and Android users. It’s still not known yet whether Apple will introduce this alongside the iPhone 16 series or before or after it. This feature is already available on Android and once brought to iPhones, it will work alongside iMessage.

Also read: Sounds crazy, but iPhone 16 Pro Max’s screen may be largest ever in an iPhone

What is RCS and how will it help us?

Well, RCS is a Google technology and is the one responsible for handling features such as typing indicators, high-quality media sharing, and in-line reactions between Apple and Android on text messaging. Those using Google Messenger on Android might be familiar with RCS as Google uses it too. 

In a statement given to 9to5Mac by an Apple spokesperson said, “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.”

Also read: iPhone 16 rumours make shocking camera and screen size claims, find out why

Appreciating the move, in a statement Google said, “We welcome Apple’s participation in our ongoing work with GSMA to evolve RCS and make messaging more equitable and secure, and look forward to working with them to implement this on iOS in a way that works well for everyone.”

But if I were you, I wouldn’t get too excited hoping for all the iMessage features on Android. It might be possible that the green and blue message bubbles still exist and Apple can keep certain features exclusively for iOS users.

Mustafa Khan

Mustafa Khan

Mustafa is new on the block and is a tech geek who is currently working with Digit as a News Writer. He tests the new gadgets that come on board and writes for the news desk. He has found his way with words and you can count on him when in need of tech advice. No judgement. He is based out of Delhi, he’s your person for good photos, good food recommendations, and to know about anything GenZ. View Full Profile

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