Google briefly mentioned on the new Google Messages page that Apple is gearing up to introduce Rich Communication Services (RCS) support for iPhones this fall. This hints at the possibility of Apple extending RCS support with the upcoming iOS 18 update.
The details were initially spotted by 9to5Google, showcasing the benefits of RCS. A section on the page labeled “coming soon on iOS” with the title “Better messaging for all” caught attention.
While the card is no longer visible on the page, the text suggesting Apple’s RCS adoption remains within the page’s source code. According to the description, “Apple has announced it will be adopting RCS in the fall of 2024, promising a superior messaging experience for all.”
Image Credits: Google
Last November, Apple confirmed its intention to support RCS, but without specifying a timeline, only mentioning it was coming in the following year.
Google has persistently urged Apple to adopt RCS to bridge the gap between Android and iOS users. Although it won’t eliminate the “Green bubble-blue bubble” distinction, it will enable Android users to send high-resolution media to iPhone users.
Moreover, Google introduced new RCS features last year, such as profiles, Photomoji, and enhanced audio quality for voice notes, as the company reported 1 billion monthly RCS users.
The revelation of Google’s RCS compatibility timeline for iPhones coincides with the U.S. Department of Justice initiating legal action against Apple for alleged monopolistic practices. Interestingly, the lawsuit includes ‘green bubbles’ as a concern affecting user security.
