RCS is Now Available with iOS 18's Release; Google Fi, Other MVNOs Still Awaiting Feature

Apple finally released the officlal version of iOS 18 after its months-long run in beta, and one of its most anticipated features has been made available upon launch, allowing users to enjoy rich communication services (RCS) messaging. This specific feature has been requested by the public and by Google for a long time now as it paves the way for cross-platform messaging that will allow iPhones and Android smartphones to take advantage of better communication technology.

Instead of relying on SMS, users can now enjoy faster messaging, sending media like photos or videos, reading receipts, and more through RCS.

RCS is Now Available on iOS 18 for Big Networks

Instead of seeing "Text Message" on the typing field when sending a message to non-iPhone users, iOS 18 is now changing that to "Text Message · RCS", signifying the arrival of this new feature. The Apple smartphone operating system's latest update is now live, and the RCS protocol is among the widely-awaited features for users to enjoy.

When connected via WiFi or cellular data, inter-platform messaging willl now send RCS that will show read receipts, typing animation, emoji compatibility, replies, and edit features. Users can now also send media like photos, videos, and GIFs, which are available to non-iPhone users.

However, it has been noted by Ars Technica that this is currently available only for the country's top networks and the rollout is not for all just yet.

Google Fi, Other MVNOs Still Await iOS 18's RCS

This affects the likes of Google Fi and other mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that resell carrier access but do not have the hardware or infrastructure necessary to carry out these services. For now, these MVNOs await Apple's next steps in supporting their technology for RCS' cross-platform messaging.

It has also been revealed by Google Fi on its network that as long as iPhones have RCS enabled, interoperability is accessible.

RCS is the New Standard of Universal Messaging

For many years, Google has put pressure on Apple with regard to their adoption of RCS as the Cupertino-based tech giant has long evaded this feature and relied on SMS/MMS to do the job. This was because Apple focused on iMessage as its version of RCS, but this has remained exclusive to iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. This eventually became the focus of the antitrust controversy against the company.

However, last year's confirmation by Apple changed that as it announced that it is adopting the RCS protocol that will unlock new capabilities for inter-platform communication. However, it is important to note that the iMessage will still be an experience to enjoy exclusively among Apple's hardware technologies, only replacing SMS with RCS when both ends are connected to wireless networks.

It is also important to note that iPhone to non-iPhone RCS messaging does not entail a "green bubble, blue bubble" change as this remains to be exclusive to the iMessage.