Cupertino, California: The latest iOS 18.4 update from Apple brings significant enhancements to the Messages app, with one standout feature being the rollout of RCS support for iPhone users. RCS, which stands for Rich Communication Services, allows for iPhone and Android users to enjoy iMessage-like features in their conversations.
Some of the key features of RCS include typing indicators, read receipts, improved media sharing, and tapback reactions. However, it is important to note that RCS support needs to be enabled by carriers before iPhone users can take advantage of these features.
While major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have been onboard with RCS support, many users of smaller carriers have been left waiting. With the iOS 18.4 update, Apple is extending RCS support to a wider range of carriers, including T-Mobile MVNOs such as Boost Mobile, Google Fi, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Tello Mobile, Ultra Mobile, US Mobile, and more.
Although Apple has not yet updated its carrier support page to reflect these new additions, users can confirm that their iPhones are using RCS by navigating to Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Messages ⇾ RCS Messaging. In conversations with Android users who also have RCS enabled, users will see the “RCS” indicator in the message box at the bottom of the screen.
Users are encouraged to check if their carrier has added RCS support in iOS 18.4 or previous updates, and share their experiences in the comments. This update brings a significant improvement to cross-platform messaging between iPhone and Android users, enhancing the overall user experience for those who rely on the Messages app for communication.