With the launch of iOS 16, Apple’s Messages app received a number of noteworthy changes. Among the multiple changes is one such noteworthy exception: RCS (Rich Chat Services). In spite of Google’s attempts to publicly shame Apple, it has methodically developed its own messaging service while ignoring Google’s criticism.
The situation of RCS in 2022 suggests that this is the best decision.
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RCS remains a disaster
Let’s quickly review RCS’s definition. However, it is an upgrade to the SMS protocol that is supported by a number of international carriers as well as Google. It updates standard messaging with contemporary features including typing indicators, read receipts, and high resolution image capabilities.
It is no longer useful as an SMS alternative between iPhones and Android phones because Apple has blatantly ignored it. Although Google has often lobbied for RCS to be added to the iPhone and take the role of SMS, Apple’s reaction was simple “seen.”
Google can immediately see the advantages. If RCS were to land, being a “green bubble” wouldn’t necessarily be a source of shame. Until you consider the reasons for Apple’s reluctance. RCS is predicted to be available to only 20% of Android users. Despite the large number of Android devices already in use, it will only be beneficial to a few consumers.
Second, RCS does not always make things easier to understand. Although it is ostensibly a carrier project, Google’s servers handle practically all of the work. Some carriers, such as AT&T, do have their own versions.Using the same phone with different carriers but using the same unstable mess can result in different versions of RCS. Even the much-touted end-to-end encryption offered by Google is only available through the Messages app and not RCS itself.
Let them eat iPhones
Cook’s remark may appear needless, but it demonstrates one important point: there is a choice. Downloading Signal or WhatsApp will enable messaging between Apple and Google devices. You’ll need to use iMessage on an iPhone if you want an iMessage substitute. There is a depressing lack of organic demand for Google’s own Chat service. To rely on potential is one thing. A failure after trying is another.
RCS does not fix any of our difficulties
Google is clearly making a “hail Mary” play even though it may portray its RCS goals as ones of equity. Notably, Google at the time didn’t use RCS. RCS was chosen after the firm tried proprietary messaging apps and failed to promote them.
However, most people use private messaging programmes to interact. They frequently satisfy communications needs globally and are dynamic in their development. A secondary business infrastructure is even developing around apps like WhatsApp and Line.
Final thought
Apple’s biggest feature isn’t any one specific feature, but rather its ubiquitous presence, as we approach iOS 16’s launch. The iPhone and iOS are ubiquitous, and users can always be counted on to interact with them. Android, despite having several benefits, lacks this feature. If it did, the RCS discussion would not be taking place. We’d all be using Allo.
Also read: Google Will Replace iPhone 14 Mini With A Small Google Pixel
