Say goodbye to the Android/Apple text bubble war! Apple has finally caved and is committed to improving cross-platform messaging between iPhones and Android devices.
Apple recently announced that it will be adopting the Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging standard, with plans to roll out this feature in a software update next year.
This strategic decision aims to level up messaging between iPhone and Android users, bringing iMessage-style features to the table.
Under increasing pressure from regulators and competitors like Google and Samsung, Apple has finally recognised the growing importance of RCS as a platform.
Thanks to RCS, you’ll soon be able to send and receive high-quality photos and videos that don’t get downgraded in the process. No more blurry media when sharing between iPhones and Androids!
In addition, features like read receipts and typing indicators will make their way into your conversations.
Apple wants you to know that iMessage, renowned for its security and privacy features, will remain the top choice for iPhone users when it comes to communication.
RCS will peacefully coexist with iMessage and will replace the good ol’ SMS and MMS, giving you even more functionality over mobile data or Wi-Fi.
Despite the changes, the messages from Android RCS texts will continue to be green.
Apple confirmed messages from Android RCS texts will still be green bubbles
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) November 17, 2023
via @9to5mac pic.twitter.com/bCbU4oBRiv
It’s a surprise move from Apple, who spent years doubling down on iMessage and resisting RCS. But recent improvements in SMS experiences between iPhones and Androids signaled a change in strategy.
Apple’s SMS game has already gotten stronger with Tapbacks, threaded replies, and message editing in SMS group chats. Talk about an enhanced user experience!
This isn’t just a small-scale decision either. Apple is committed to working with GSMA members to further improve the RCS protocol, including areas like security and encryption.
As we eagerly await the arrival of RCS on our phones, rest assured that Apple’s embrace of this new standard is part of their larger mission to support open standards. They’ve collaborated on projects like the Matter smart home standard, Passkeys with the FIDO Alliance, and the development of the Qi2 wireless charging standard.
iPhone and Android users, get ready for a better texting experience sometime next year!
