With the latest iOS 18 developer beta, Apple has taken a significant step forward by introducing Rich Communication Services (RCS) support in the Messages app. This update is designed to make texting between iPhones and Android devices easier and more seamless.RCS is a modern messaging tool created to replace the traditional SMS system. Instead of relying on cellular networks, RCS uses the internet to provide high-quality file sharing, read receipts, typing indicators, and group conversations. iPhone users have had access to these features on iMessage, but when texting non-Apple devices, they were not available. RCS has now closed that void by providing these convenient functions to messaging across multiple platforms. Nevertheless, RCS messages sent from Android devices will continue to be displayed as green bubbles within iMessage, maintaining the visual differentiation between iPhone and non-iPhone conversations.Apple first announced RCS support in late 2023, causing quite a stir among users.During the recent Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple quietly mentioned the inclusion of RCS in iOS 18, which was overshadowed by more prominent features such as text effects and satellite messaging.Initially, there were no indications of RCS in the first developer betas of iOS 18. This sparked numerous ideas about the actual release date. However, users can now utilize RCS features in the second beta release as long as their carrier supports for it. This feature is currently restricted to American carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. If you are using one of these networks, you will see a new RCS toggle in the Messages settings, just above the MMS Messaging switch. Expanding RCS worldwide presents a slightly more complex challenge. Carriers globally must modify their network configurations to accommodate the new protocol. Although the major U.S carriers have already accomplished this, international carriers are still catching up.Early adopters of the iOS 18 beta have had mixed experiences with RCS. A few users have effectively utilized the new features, while some have experienced slightly inconsistent performance, as is common with beta software. As we approach the official release of iOS 18 this fall, it is anticipated that these issues will be resolved, resulting in a more dependable user experience.The tech community has mostly welcomed Apple’s decision to support RCS, viewing it as a necessary step towards improving cross-platform communication. By embracing RCS, Apple acknowledges the growing demand for a unified messaging experience that works across multiple devices.If you liked this story, please follow us and subscribe to our free daily newsletter.
