Apple will finally adopt the RCS messaging standard for iPhones by 2024, the company has confirmed to multiple media outlets.
The move will bring a richer texting experience between iPhone and Android users. features like read receipts, typing indicators, high-res images and videos, messaging over WiFi, and more will be compatible once the update is pushed.
Apple also said that iMessage is not going away, and will stay the default method, and that RCS will work alongside it’s iMessage service. Users will be able to choose which service they want to use. The update will roll out in a form of software update.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Google said it was happy to see Apple support RCS.
We welcome Apple’s participation in our ongoing work with GSMA to evolve RCS and make messaging more equitable and secure, and look forward to working with them to implement this on iOS in a way that works well for everyone.
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