What is RCS? Here’s how iOS 18 makes Messages better
What iMessage features will be usable with RCS?
With RCS support in iOS 18, users will be able to enjoy improved messaging between iPhones and Androids, including higher quality photos and videos, read receipts, and typing indicators. RCS conversations will still use green bubbles, but they will be more reliable and feature-rich compared to SMS/MMS.
Why will SMS and MMS still be used in iOS 18?
SMS and MMS will still be used in iOS 18 as a fallback option when RCS is not available. RCS relies on mobile data to send messages, so in situations where data is not available but a basic cell connection exists, iPhones will utilize SMS/MMS. This ensures message delivery even in limited connectivity scenarios.
How does RCS affect iPhone-Android messaging reliability?
RCS improves iPhone-Android messaging reliability by providing a newer, more advanced system than SMS and MMS. With RCS, users can send higher quality photos and videos, receive read receipts, and see typing indicators. This makes conversations between iPhones and Androids more reliable and on par with iMessage features, reducing issues previously experienced with SMS and MMS.