The iOS 18.2 update marks a turning point for iPhone users in France, by making Rich Communication Services (RCS) support available at Free Mobile and Bouygues Telecom, after an initial launch reserved for SFR subscribers with iOS 18.0 . This messaging standard, already in place on Android since 2019 and now integrated into the Apple ecosystem since 2024, promises to replace SMS and MMS with a more enriched and secure service. However, Orange subscribers are still waiting for RCS compatibility, even if optimism remains for an upcoming activation.
A major transition for mobile messaging
The arrival of RCS on iOS represents a significant step forward for iPhone users. This technology aims to provide a modernized messaging experience, with features such as delivery receipts, sending high-definition attachments, and group conversations. This type of enriched communication fills the gaps in traditional SMS and MMS, offering a more secure and functional alternative while simplifying the interaction between two telephone numbers, regardless of their operator or platform.
Apple opens the door to RCS, but lets each operator manage the deployment
With iOS 18.0, Apple officially integrated support for RCS, a decision awaited for several years by the industry and users. However, Apple has chosen a decentralized approach, leaving each operator responsible for managing the servers for the transmission of RCS messages. This configuration allowed SFR to launch the service in September, while Free, Bouygues, and Orange had to wait to finalize their own technical infrastructures.
Free and Bouygues join the movement with iOS 18.2
Beta version 2 of the iOS 18.2 update, available since November 4, allows Free Mobile and Bouygues Telecom subscribers to activate the RCS function, making it possible to send enriched messages. This advancement was well received by users of both operators, eager to benefit from modern messaging comparable to applications such as WhatsApp or iMessage, but accessible without additional installation or dependence on a closed platform. Orange could also offer RCS with this version, although no mention of the operator has yet appeared in the iOS 18.2 settings. Activation during beta 3, expected soon, could ultimately allow Orange customers to benefit from RCS.
The deployment of 5G SA at Free, a persistent wait
Although Free Mobile is ahead of the RCS deployment, support for 5G Standalone (5G SA) on iPhone remains absent for its subscribers. Despite suggestions from the operator that Apple holds the keys to enabling this technology (often referred to as “5G+”), no progress has yet been observed. According to Free, this decision would be solely up to Apple, but it remains surprising that after the update of the operator files for the RCS, the transition to 5G SA was not considered simultaneously. This absence could be linked to technical or commercial choices on Apple’s part, but it leaves users waiting for a 5G network fully independent of 4G infrastructure.
An early release of iOS 18.2 in December?
According to sources reported by Bloomberg, the iOS 18.2 update should be deployed at the beginning of December 2024, bringing RCS for Free and Bouygues subscribers officially. Apple could, however, release an intermediate version, iOS 18.1.1, with the same operator files as in iOS 18.2, thus accelerating the deployment of RCS. If this hypothesis materializes, Free and Bouygues users could benefit from RCS well before December.
SFR, precursor of RCS in France, with an impact on virtual operators (MVNO)
For the moment, SFR remains the only French operator to offer official RCS support, available from September. This service is also accessible to subscribers of mobile virtual operators (MVNOs) using the SFR network, which broadens the scope of RCS technology. This pioneering initiative places SFR at the head of the French market for this technology, while Free, Bouygues and potentially Orange fully join the movement by the end of the year.
RCS: towards a universal standard for enriched messaging
The gradual adoption of RCS by major French operators represents an important step towards the standardization of communication standards. With the ability to exchange enriched messages independently of platforms, this technology promises to become a serious alternative to current instant messaging applications. However, for this service to reach its full potential, compatibility with all operators, including Orange, will be crucial. In the meantime, Free and Bouygues subscribers can look forward to finally seeing RCS arrive on their iPhones thanks to iOS 18.2, marking a significant step forward for mobile messaging in France.
