Apple adds RCS support in iOS 18 Beta 2 for Google Messages users

Apple has released iOS 18 Beta 2, which includes support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) in the US. This allows iPhone users to communicate with Android users via Google Messages using the benefits of RCS.

Here's What We Know

After upgrading to iOS 18 Beta 2, the RCS Messaging toggle is enabled by default for customers on compatible carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. However, MVNO customers, such as Google Fi, do not have access to this feature. It's important to note that RCS on iPhone works regardless of the Android owner's carrier, as long as RCS is active on your device.

Google Messages on iPhone displays "RCS message" in the text field. The delivery/read confirmation options, input indicators, and high-resolution image and video sharing work correctly.

RCS conversations do not have end-to-end encryption (E2EE), which is indicated by a padlock icon with a slash. Google is planning to introduce E2EE for 1:1 and group conversations on Android, and Apple is looking to add encryption to the RCS Universal Profile standard.

In group conversations, you can change names and synchronise them with all participants, as well as leave the group. However, some settings, such as the "Only send SMS and MMS messages" switch, may not be available when talking to an iPhone.

Google is expected to update Messages before the official launch of iOS 18 in the autumn to address current inconsistencies and improve the user experience.

Source: 9to5Google