Google suggests that RCS support may be officially available for iPhone later this fall.
The Google Messages webpage indicates that RCS is “On its way to iOS soon.”
Apple announced last year its plans to integrate rich communication services (RCS) into iMessage by 2024. Although Apple has not provided a specific release date, Google has now revealed a timeframe for RCS availability on iOS via its updated Google Messages webpage. This suggests that Apple may introduce RCS support with the iOS 18 update or coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 series. The implementation of RCS by Apple is anticipated to enhance cross-device messaging coherence.
The official Android website recently introduced a new section dedicated to Google Messages, highlighting its native messaging features, including RCS. According to a report from 9to5Google, the page (subsequently removed) mentioned that RCS support for iPhone is slated for fall 2024.
As noted by the report, the expansion of RCS functionality on Google Messages includes a section labeled “Coming soon on iOS” under the heading “Better messaging for all.” The description stated, “Apple had announced it will be adopting RCS in the fall of 2024. Once that happens, it will mean a better messaging experience for everyone.”
If Apple indeed plans to roll out RCS support in fall 2024, it implies that the next major operating system update, iOS 18, could introduce the new messaging standard to iOS. Typically, Apple releases significant iOS updates in September, coinciding with the launch of new iPhone models.
In November of last year, Apple announced its intention to add RCS support, with compatibility expected to arrive in 2024 without specifying a precise timeline. The new RCS standard will complement iMessage and is anticipated to offer various messaging features such as multimedia support, read receipts, typing indicators, and more. Apple’s adoption of RCS will facilitate cross-platform messaging between Android and iOS devices over mobile data or Wi-Fi networks.
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