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Finally! Apple agrees to support RCS; messaging no longer a “Blue vs. Green” battle?
To all Apple and Android fans, you’ve waited a long time! In the past few years, whenever messaging between iPhone and Android phones was mentioned, it was truly a “history of heartache.” On one side were the prestigious blue bubbles, while on the other were green bubbles like relics from the last century. Photos sent across were blurry as mosaics, videos played like slideshows, and you couldn’t even see a “read” status. But now, this long-standing high wall is finally coming down!According to the latest report from 9to5Mac, Apple has confirmed that it will officially include support for RCS (Rich Communication Services) in an upcoming software update (unsurprisingly iOS 18). This is more than just a change in format; it’s a rare and significant “down-to-earth” concession from Apple. Today, we’re going to take an in-depth look at just how “good” this upgrade really is.
What is RCS? Why is it such a “big deal”?
Simply put, RCS is an upgraded version of SMS/MMS. If you’re used to using LINE or WhatsApp, features like read receipts, high-quality image sharing, and typing status are basic functions of this type of data communication. However, in the past, Apple gave the cold shoulder to olive branches from the Android camp in order to protect the iMessage moat.This time, Apple has decided to introduce the “RCS Universal Profile,” which means that in the future, when iPhone users and Android users message each other, they will no longer be limited by the old SMS specifications. This is definitely a sincere step forward for cross-platform communication.
Key Features Roundup: What should you look forward to?
This update isn’t just about a “name change.” The following features will definitely be very noticeable to you:
- High-quality media transmission: From now on, the kitty videos sent by Android friends will no longer be blurry pixels. RCS supports higher resolution images and videos, making the visual experience a direct and compelling upgrade.
- Read receipts and typing status: Finally, you can see if the other person is “ghosting” you after reading, or if they are “typing.” Although these features can sometimes be stressful, they are indeed much more convenient for real-time communication.
- Stronger group features: In the past, trying to pull an Android user into an iMessage group was a disaster. After supporting RCS, the smoothness of group chats will be significantly improved.
- Messaging over Wi-Fi: You can send messages as long as there’s an internet connection, so you don’t have to worry about cellular signal dead zones anymore. This is really cost-effective.
Major security upgrade: End-to-end encryption is no longer just a slogan
Many people might worry—now that the standard is open, what about security? Don’t worry, Apple specifically emphasized this time that they will work with the GSM Association to commit to adding more robust End-to-End Encryption to the RCS protocol. This means your chat history won’t be intercepted at will during transmission, and privacy protection is maxed out. For Apple fans who value privacy above all else, this is undoubtedly a shot in the arm.
Why did Apple suddenly “have a change of heart”?
To put it bluntly, behind this, besides Google’s long-term “snide remarks” and marketing offensives, the most important factor is the pressure from the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Facing regulatory bodies sharpening their knives, rather than being hit passively, Apple chose to take the initiative and package this update as a benevolent move to enhance user experience.Although the color distinction of “blue and green bubbles” might still exist in the short term (Apple still wants to maintain the sense of prestige for iMessage), at least in terms of functionality, both sides are finally standing on the same starting line.
Conclusion: Is iOS 18 worth the hype?
Although people in Taiwan are used to using LINE for everything, in terms of business contact or general text messaging, the addition of RCS undoubtedly makes the iPhone more practical and less exclusionary. This is no longer just an update for Apple fans to hype themselves up, but a true milestone in breaking down platform barriers.It is currently expected by all parties that this upgrade will officially debut with iOS 18 this fall. If you’re still waiting to see if you should switch to a new phone, or if you’re “fed up” by current texting features, then this update is definitely worth your anticipation. Let’s wait and see what new tricks Apple can pull off!What do you think? Do you think this update will make you use the built-in messaging app more often? Or do you think “LINE is enough”? Feel free to leave a comment below and share with us!“
