Exploring the Limited RCS Support in iOS 18 Beta: What You Need to Know

Tech & AI | June 17, 2024, 4:44 p.m.

Apple has confirmed that RCS (Rich Communication Services) support will be added to the iPhone in a software update expected in 2024. Some iOS 18 developer beta users claim to have activated a limited version of RCS messaging between iPhone and Android through "special magic." Functionality includes individual and group messaging, file transfers to Android, and limited read receipts. However, end-to-end encryption is not yet functional. RCS support will improve messaging capabilities between iPhone and Android users, allowing for higher-quality media transfers and iMessage-like features. This development is a step towards greater interoperability between iOS and Android devices. While Apple initially downplayed the importance of RCS, the move towards supporting it aligns with global trends and standards. The implementation of RCS on iPhones is expected to benefit users on both platforms, enhancing cross-platform communication.