Apple RCS, introduced with the release of iOS 18.1, brings two exciting new features:RCS (Rich Communications Services) and RBM (Rich Business Messaging) are now accessible for iPhones and iPads. This means iOS users will now enjoy the most advanced messaging experience with improved private conversations and business communications capabilities..

Does Apple iOS support RCS messaging?

Apple allows users to send a RCS message to other people (P2P) from iOS 18, which was made public in the World Wide Developer's Conference (WWDC24). That means iPhone users are now able to communicate and receive best quality messages, as well as things like videos and images within regular chats.

Furthermore, with the launch of iOS 18.1 beta in October 2024 Apple also introduced the A2P Business messaging feature. Businesses can now communicate rich, interactive messages to their customers, such as promotional messages or updates to orders that include more features than normal text messages.

Which carriers offer RCS SMS?

RCS messaging is currently available in the following countries through these carriers,

RCS messaging is currently available in many countries through a variety of carriers. Some of the major ones include:

1. United States:

• T-Mobile
• Verizon
• AT&T

2. United Kingdom:

• Vodafone
• EE
• Three

3. Canada:

• Rogers
• Bell
• Telus

4. Australia

• Telstra
• Optus
• Vodafone

5. Germany

• Deutsche Telekom
• Vodafone
• O2

6. France

• Orange
• SFR
• Bouygues Telecom

7. India

• Jio
• Airtel
• Vi (Vodafone Idea)

RCS availability can vary by region and carrier, so it's best to check with your specific mobile provider for the latest updates.

How to turn on RCS on your iPhone?

Before you start, ensure that your iOS software is up-to-date with iOS 18. If you're located in one of these countries above and have a compatible carrier then you'll be able to activate RCS messages (beta).

STEP: Open your iPhone settings, tap on Messages, then choose RCS Messaging, and turn it on to start sending richer messages to Android users.

RCS providing an alternative to iMessage

Here’s a preview of the new messaging options:

IMessage: There aren't any changes to iMessage with iOS 18. It remains the most popular messaging platform among Apple and Android devices (indicated with Blue bubbles). But, if iMessage isn't in use RCS will be the alternative to backup.

SMS and MMS: If iPhone or Android users exchange messages with one another, they'll depend on MMS or SMS for messages, however these are more basic and less interactive as compared to RCS. This makes communication between users of different devices restricted and difficult to participate in meaningful conversations.

RCS: Thanks to RCS, Android users can now benefit from enhanced messaging capabilities (like high-quality photos and read receipts) while messaging Apple users. However conversations among Apple or Android users will show like green bubbles (indicating the use of SMS/MMS). Because RCS utilizes information, text messages will continue to be the default option when there's an internet-connected device.

How will this change RCS Business Messaging?

With iOS 18 support for RCS on iPhones, RCS Business Messaging will experience significant improvements. Businesses will be able to connect with customers through more interactive and engaging messages, including rich media like images, videos, and carousels. The introduction of RCS enables more personalized communication with features like read receipts, typing indicators, and location sharing. As Apple users join the RCS ecosystem, cross-platform communication between iPhones and Android devices will become smoother, offering a more consistent and enhanced messaging experience for businesses to engage with their customers. This move also opens up more opportunities for customer service, promotions, and other business interactions to be more dynamic and effective.

An overview of RCS Business Messages

Now, with RCS Business Messaging available on both Apple and Android devices, it has the potential to combine the wide reach of SMS with the rich messaging features seen on WhatsApp and other messaging apps.

RCS Business Messaging is seen as the next advancement in SMS. It supports both P2P and A2P communication, combining SMS's wide reach through mobile network operators (MNOs) with enhanced messaging features for a better customer experience.

Key features of RCS Business Messages

• High-quality image and video sharing
• Read receipts and delivery status
• Rich media content like carousels and buttons
• Location sharing in messages
• Interactive customer support
• Enhanced personalization options
• Seamless integration with CRM systems

Why did Apple decide to bring RCS support to the iPhone?

The reasons behind Apple's decision to support RCS on iPhones have not been officially revealed, but several key factors likely influenced this move:

Impact of EU Regulations 2022 on Messaging Services

It’s possible that the decision to support RCS on iPhones is driven by the EU regulations introduced in 2022. These regulations aimed to improve the interoperability of messaging services across different platforms. By adopting RCS, Apple could ensure that iPhones are more compatible with other devices, particularly Android. This move could also help in meeting regulatory requirements that promote a seamless communication experience across the EU. Supporting RCS could be Apple’s way of aligning with these evolving standards to enhance user connectivity.

RCS is rising in popularity

As rich messaging becomes more common, RCS usage is expected to increase. In 2022, there were 1.2 billion RCS users, and by 2026, it’s predicted to reach 3.8 billion, which would be 40% of all smartphone users. If all iPhone users get access to RCS, these numbers could rise even faster, making RCS a big player in the messaging world.