Apple’s New iOS 18 Beta Includes RCS Support

After much delay, Apple’s new iOS 18 Beta update will finally introduce Rich Communication Services (RCS) to the messaging app.

Apple has successfully implemented Rich Communication Services (RCS) in its Messages application. The feature was included in the second developer beta of iOS 18 earlier this week.

Using the internet, RCS is a messaging protocol that enables the transmission and reception of high-quality images and files, as well as the display of typing indicators, the receipt of read receipts, and the establishment of group conversations. Until recently, iPhone users were restricted to sending SMS or MMS messages from the Messages app to individuals who did not possess an Apple device. They were able to share media, receive read receipts, and utilize other features exclusively with other Apple device users via iMessage. This update enables iPhone users to initiate file sharing and text communication with any device that supports RCS, which encompasses most Android phones.

Nevertheless, iMessage will continue to display messages from Android devices as green bubbles.

Currently, RCS is restricted to U.S. carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Although the toggle is visible to users who have installed the iOS 18 developer beta, the feature will only function if their mobile carrier has updated their network bundle for iOS 18 and supports RCS. We will revise this narrative as soon as we receive information regarding the protocol’s acceptance in other regions.

During its keynote address at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, Apple briefly mentioned that iOS 18 would include RCS support.

“In contrast to SMS and MMS, the Messages app now supports RCS for richer media and more reliable group messaging when messaging contacts who do not have an Apple device,” Apple stated in its release announcing iOS 18.

Both iPhone and Android users have been requesting that Apple support RCS for an extended period, as it simplifies the process of messaging and sharing content with others, irrespective of their device of choice. For years, Google has also been encouraging Apple to transcend the blue and green bubble divide.