iOS 18 developer beta 2 brings RCS support to iPhones

Apple has finally added support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) in its latest iOS 18 beta release. Some iPhone users with the new software can now send enhanced messages to Android devices .RCS is a messaging protocol that allows for features like high-quality media sharing, typing indicators, and read receipts between different types of smartphones.Until now, these features were only available when iPhone users messaged other Apple devices through iMessage .The update came as part of iOS 18's second developer beta, released on Monday. Users of major US carriers including T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon reported being able to activate and use RCS features.To enable RCS, users with compatible carrier support can go to Settings > Apps > Messages and toggle on the new RCS option. Messages sent via RCS will be labelled as "Text Message - RCS" in conversations.Key features of RCS support on iPhone include:- Sending higher quality photos and videos- Larger file size transfers- Audio messages- Read receipts and typing indicators- Improved group chatsHowever, RCS messages will still appear in green bubbles, distinguishing them from blue-bubble iMessage conversations between Apple devices.It's important to note that RCS support is currently limited to users in the United States with carriers that have enabled the feature. Many users with smaller carriers or mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) may not have access yet.The addition of RCS support marks a significant shift for Apple, which had long resisted adopting the protocol despite pressure from Google and other tech companies. This move is expected to improve messaging between iPhone and Android users, reducing the long-standing "green bubble" stigma.iOS 18 is currently available only as a developer beta. A public beta is expected next month, with the full public release scheduled for fall 2024. At that time, RCS support should be available to all iOS 18 users with compatible carriers.