Apple Set to Introduce RCS Support for iPhones in Fall 2024
Google Briefly Reveals Timeline for RCS Compatibility on iOS
In a short-lived update on the new Google Messages page, Google inadvertently disclosed that Apple is planning to introduce Rich Communication Services (RCS) support for iPhones in the fall of 2024. This suggests that the Cupertino-based company is likely to include RCS compatibility in the upcoming iOS 18 update.
Details of the Accidental Revelation
The revelation, initially discovered by 9to5Google, was part of a section highlighting the advantages of RCS. A card within this section, labeled “coming soon on iOS,” bore the title “Better messaging for all.” Although the card has since been removed from the visible page, the text remains in the page’s source code.
“Apple has announced it will be adopting RCS in the fall of 2024. Once that happens, it will mean a better messaging experience for everyone.”
Image Credits: Google
Apple’s Confirmation and Google’s Push for RCS
In November 2023, Apple confirmed its plans to add RCS support, stating that compatibility would arrive “next year” without providing a specific timeline. Google has long urged, nudged, and nagged Apple to adopt RCS to minimize the “Green bubble-blue bubble” differentiation between Android and iPhone users. While RCS will not eliminate this distinction, it will enable Android users to send high-resolution media to iPhone users.
RCS Adoption and New Features
In 2023, Google announced new RCS features, such as user profiles, Photomoji, and enhanced audio quality for voice notes, as the company reported 1 billion monthly RCS users.
Legal Battle and the “Green Bubbles” Issue
Google’s partial disclosure of the RCS compatibility timeline for iPhones coincides with the U.S. Department of Justice’s legal battle against Apple over the company’s alleged monopolistic practices. Interestingly, the lawsuit cites “green bubbles” as a factor affecting user security.
3 Comments
Google’s dropping hints like it’s hot, and Apple’s picking them up – this fall’s gonna be lit!
So Google’s finally cracking the Apple code, huh? Interesting times ahead!
Finally, Apple’s catching up with the times – bout time they embraced RCS!