Starting with iOS 5 in 2011, Apple introduced a new messaging standard called iMessage. If you're using an iOS or Mac device, you've likely used the feature through the Messages app.
These are displayed as a blue bubble that allows you to send reactions, emojis, GIFs, etc.
However, in recent years a relatively new messaging standard called RCS (Rich Communication Services) has started to emerge, which attempts to replace the SMS standard used by iMessage.
RCS is designed to provide the same functionality as iMessage, WhatsApp, and other messaging apps in a way that works across multiple device types.
Google's Android chief Hiroshi Lockheimer accused Apple of bullying by forcing users to use iMessage instead of RCS. But Lockheimer and others are forgetting about those who don't use smartphones, and that's a problem.
The advantages and disadvantages of RCS
If you are using an Android phone through the messaging app and you live in the US, you will be able to reply with reactions, emojis over an encrypted connection. This is something that SMS does not provide.
Since RCS was introduced in 2008, the Open Mobile Alliance has led the way in trying to replace the SMS standard with it. This makes it easier for users to share content without being charged, as MMS or picture messages still do.
However, the standard is limited. Many carriers in the US have not agreed to implement RCS, leaving it patchy at best over cellular networks. While some other countries, such as the UK, do not currently have an RCS-compliant carrier.
Combine that with the fact that Universal Profile, which is the latest attempt by carriers to implement the same RCS standard on phones provided by everyone, has been delayed. It's basically a chance to find out if your phone and carrier will have RCS.
But there is still another downside to this. Google has decided to enable RCS in its own Messages app, which means no matter what carrier you're on, you'll be able to use the service.
This applies to UK users, but others prefer to send messages via WhatsApp and other apps.
Google's Android chief Hiroshi Lockheimer attempted to rectify his comments over the weekend, along with a link to a TikTok video by Maxwell Weinbach explaining why he thought it was bad that Apple didn't implement RCS.
Tons of great talk after my weekend tweet. Thanks for that. I wanted to continue with some reflections and clarifications: January 10, 2022
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But while both make compelling arguments on the one hand, there is another aspect that both Google and Weinbach have overlooked. It could also be the reason why Apple hasn't implemented RCS yet.
Forget the occasional user
Most of us have family members who simply refuse to switch to a smartphone. Or at least refuse to upgrade to a newer smartphone released after 2011.
It is a comfortable blanket for those who are familiar with the design and functionality of the old phone. They are comfortable with SMS messaging, the camera app, and Facebook, and nothing else.
RCS is not taken into account. Although the Google Messages app requires Android 5.0 and up, it's a coincidence that older phones support RCS within the app. And that is if your friend or family member is using the Google Messages app on their phone.
While the feature is clearly beneficial to those who post frequently, influencers and heads of these departments seem to not have a full picture of the benefits of RCS and whether more effort should be made to standardize RCS, rather than a single application or wait for it to be . carriers on board.