RCS On Apple Is A Game-Changer For Messaging
Samsung Galaxy brand loyalty usually causes frustration among iPhone users due to the green text bubble.
iPhone offers iMessage perks like high-quality media sharing and typing indicators exclusive to iPhone users.
However, receiving green texts from non-iPhone users is now annoying, highlighting how exclusivity can shape preferences.
With Apple's adoption of Rich Communication Services (RCS), messaging is set to improve.
RCS replaces SMS with features like typing indicators, high-quality media sharing, and end-to-end encryption.
Already standard on Android, Apple's decision comes after pressure from users, competitors, and lawmakers.
Although Apple didn't focus much on RCS at this year's Worldwide Developers Conference keynote, the update is expected to launch with iOS 18 this fall.
According to 9to5Mac, it's already appearing in the iOS 18 developer beta 2. Here's what to expect from Apple's adoption of RCS and how it could enhance messaging.
RCS Replacing SMS
RCS aims to modernize messaging with Android users by replacing SMS. Apple's iOS 18 preview page from WWDC reveals a first look at these changes.
Instead of low-resolution media, users can expect high-quality photos and videos.
Additionally, RCS will introduce features like read receipts and delivery confirmations, as shown in Apple's screenshot.
Users testing RCS on iOS 18 developer beta 2 report that iPhone users will now see typing indicators when messaging Android friends.
However, adopting RCS won't resolve the distinction between iMessage and SMS/MMS.
iMessage remains exclusive to Apple devices, so communication with non-iPhone users will still be different, though potentially more feature-rich.
Texts with Android users will still appear as green bubbles, which users must accept.
Certain features are exclusive to iMessage and Google's Messages app.
For example, capabilities like editing or unsending messages in iMessage won't likely extend to RCS messages.
Unique Google Messages features, such as drafting texts with the Gemini AI model, may also not be available on other platforms.
It remains to be seen if messages exchanged between Android phones and iPhones will have end-to-end encryption.
Nevertheless, this update aims to modernize messaging between Android phones and iPhones, reducing the outdated feel of current methods.
RCS is expected to arrive on iPhones with iOS 18 this fall, although Apple hasn't specified an exact release date.
Before the WWDC keynote, Google inadvertently revealed RCS's upcoming availability on iPhones through a landing page for Google Messages.
Despite its removal, Google's anticipation of this development was evident.
Department of Justice's Antitrust Suit
The US DOJ’s antitrust lawsuit against Apple alleges monopolistic practices, including claims that Apple restricts cross-platform messaging by keeping iMessage exclusive to its devices.
Apple argues this exclusivity is necessary for user privacy and security, citing concerns over encryption and authentication standards on non-Apple devices.
The company also highlights its efforts to support RCS in enhancing messaging with non-iPhone users.
Additionally, Apple highlighted various messaging platforms available for cross-device communication, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and Snapchat.
However, users often prefer using their phone's default messaging app, depending on location.
The outcome of the complaint and its impact on Apple's closed ecosystem remains uncertain.
In Europe, pressure from the Digital Markets Act aims to ensure fair competition in tech.
The EU determined Apple's messaging service isn't a “gatekeeper” requiring direct integration with other chat apps, unlike Meta's WhatsApp and Messenger.
The future will reveal how Apple responds to DOJ scrutiny and potential changes to iMessage, which could take years to unfold.
Shortly, Android and iPhone owners can look forward to Apple embracing RCS, offering hope for smoother communication across different devices.
Even if messages remain green, there's optimism that the divide between platforms will become less pronounced.
Impact on Cross-Platform Communication
Apple's adoption of RCS marks a significant shift in how iPhone users interact with those on Android and other platforms.
By integrating RCS capabilities into its messaging system, Apple aims to bridge the gap separating iMessage users from those reliant on SMS and MMS.
This move promises to enhance the user experience by standardizing features like read receipts, typing indicators, and high-resolution media sharing across different devices and operating systems.
The introduction of RCS means iPhone users can now engage in more dynamic and interactive conversations with friends and colleagues using Android devices.
No longer limited by the constraints of SMS, Apple's RCS support enables seamless group chats, better media sharing options, and enhanced security features that align more closely with iMessage standards.
Moreover, Apple's support of RCS represents a step towards greater inclusivity in digital communication.
It facilitates smoother transitions between different messaging platforms, making it easier for users to switch devices without losing essential communication features.
This shift benefits individual users and sets a precedent for a more interconnected and unified messaging experience across the mobile ecosystem.

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”