Apple Inc. has announced plans to enable iPhone and Android users to exchange messages through the RCS communications protocol. The feature is set to roll out next year, according to a company spokesperson, as reported by 9to5Mac. Notably, this RCS support will not be integrated into the existing iMessage app, suggesting that users will access the feature through third-party messaging services or a new, yet-to-be-revealed app developed by Apple.
How SMS are exchanged between iPhones and Android Devices?
Currently, iMessage restricts message exchange to iPhones. While texts can be sent from iPhones to Android devices, they are transmitted via the SMS protocol, which has inherent technical limitations. The forthcoming RCS implementation by Apple aims to address these limitations, offering an alternative to SMS with enhanced features.
Why RCS over SMS?
RCS holds an advantage in terms of cybersecurity, supporting end-to-end encryption. Unlike SMS, which provides limited cybersecurity features, RCS offers a more secure option. Additionally, while SMS relies solely on cellular connections, RCS supports both mobile data plans and Wi-Fi.
Why Apple has Decided to Integrate RCS Messaging for iPhone?
Apple’s decision to implement RCS follows persistent calls from Android handset manufacturers. This is particularly relevant in light of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which introduced stricter antitrust requirements for major tech companies like Apple. The Act, specifically its section on messaging apps, emphasizes the need for interoperability and sharing of messages between dominant platforms and their rivals. By incorporating RCS support, Apple aims to enhance interoperability with messaging apps on Android devices, potentially easing regulatory compliance.
The RCS implementation by Apple is expected to offer features comparable to iMessage, including typing indicators, read receipts, and the ability to share multimedia files and location data within messages. Collaboration with the industry consortium overseeing RCS is also in the works to bolster the protocol’s cybersecurity features.
Given regulatory considerations, there is speculation that Apple may eventually integrate RCS support directly into iMessage. The Digital Markets Act classifies iMessage as a “core platform service,” subject to more stringent antitrust requirements. Apple contests this classification, and the European Commission is currently evaluating the matter.
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