Like standard SMS, Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging on iPhones will function over Wi-Fi or mobile data, enhancing texting capabilities without requiring any extra apps.
Apple and Google are allegedly negotiating the introduction of Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging for Indian iPhone customers. This change, which is currently dominated by WhatsApp and regular SMS, is apparently anticipated to occur later this year (timelines uncertain). It might have a big impact on India’s messaging market.
Google and Apple’s cooperation on RCS
Apple may integrate Google’s backend RCS technology into its iMessage platform in India, according to The Economic Times. By bridging the gap between the two ecosystems, this alliance would enable seamless RCS messaging communication between iPhone and Android users.
Peer-to-peer (P2P) RCS texting is currently available in eight countries, including the US, Canada, Germany, Spain, France, the UK, Belgium, and China, thanks to Apple. It is anticipated that a similar strategy will be used in India, where Apple will collaborate closely with telecom companies and Google.
How India’s messaging will be altered by RCS
Like WhatsApp and iMessage, RCS is a sophisticated messaging protocol that provides capabilities like group conversations, high-quality media sharing, read receipts, and typing indicators. RCS on iPhones could improve commercial messaging services and lessen reliance on third-party apps for texting in India.
Local telecom providers have teamed up with other vendors for RCS integration in China, where Google is prohibited. Apple is likely to use Google’s infrastructure in India, where Google has previously partnered with Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio for RCS messaging.
Airtel’s Disagreement with Google’s RCS Model
Jio and Vodafone Idea have backed Google’s RCS rollout, however Airtel has declined to join the program due to spam detection issues.
“RCS will not be onboarded until Google permits Airtel to identify spam messages using its proprietary tool,” said an unidentified Airtel executive. Like other over-the-top (OTT) services, Google RCS avoids Airtel’s sophisticated spam filtering system.
However, the relationship between Apple and Google is anticipated to improve business messaging (A2P), a crucial channel for banks, e-commerce companies, and other businesses.
Implications for Indian iPhone users
RCS texting for iPhones will function similarly to standard SMS for users on Wi-Fi or mobile data. This implies enhanced texting capabilities without the need for further programs. A smooth, feature-rich chatting experience with Android users may soon be available to iPhone users in India thanks to Google and Apple’s collaboration.
