Key Highlights
- Apple may bring RCS to India
- Jio and Vi may support it
- Messaging between iPhone and Android may get better
Apple is reportedly in talks with Google to support Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging in India. This move could improve how iPhone and Android users message each other. If the partnership works out, Apple’s iMessage might soon support RCS messaging, bridging the gap between two different platforms. Let’s break down what this means and why it matters.
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What Is RCS Messaging?
RCS, that is, Rich Communication Services is a new and improved version of SMS. Unlike old-style text messages, RCS runs over the internet and offers better features like:
- Typing indicators
- Read receipts
- High-quality media sharing
- Messages over Wi-Fi or mobile data
It is designed to make messaging more modern and interactive.
Apple’s Global RCS Rollout Has Already Started
Apple has already enabled RCS-based peer-to-peer messaging in several countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, and China. In these regions (except China), Apple uses Google’s backend servers to deliver messages. If India follows a similar path, the same model may be adopted here as well.
India Plans: Apple-Google Partnership Under Discussion
According to The Economic Times, Apple is considering working with Google to enable RCS support in India. Google already has partnerships with Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio for RCS messaging. This could help Apple offer RCS features through iMessage in collaboration with these telecom operators.
Airtel’s Stand Against RCS
Bharti Airtel, however, has opted out of working with Google for now. The reason? Spam concerns. Airtel wants to use its own spam detection tools, but since Google’s RCS is an OTT service, it bypasses Airtel’s system. The telecom operator has also asked for government action to bring OTT messaging under spam control rules.
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What It Means For Users
If the deal works out, iPhone and Android users in India will enjoy:
- Better message syncing
- Richer media sharing
- Improved messaging features without needing third-party apps
It could be a big step forward in making cross-platform communication easier and smarter.
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