THE messages RCS are becoming more and more talked about, but why? What does this new protocol bring compared to the SMS and MMS that they are supposed to replace? What are the differences between these different technologies? Follow the leader.
What is an RCS chat message?
RCS stands for “Rich Communication Services” in the language of Shakespeare. The most appropriate translation in French would be “enriched communication service”. We are talking more precisely about “RCS chats” or “RCS messages”. The RCS protocol, like SMS and MMS, was created by the international association GSMA which represents the interests of mobile phone operators and manufacturers around the world.
Officially, the premises of RCS date back to 2007, but the road to its adoption was long. In 2012, Orange wanted to push this technology with its Joyn brand, but few operators followed. It was only when Google highlighted RCS on Android in its Messages application in 2019 that the protocol made a real leap forward.
Why did you create RCS messages?
SMS, which means “Short Message Service”, better known to us under the nickname “texto”, was created at the end of the 80s. It has the advantage of not requiring an internet connection (Wi-Fi , 4G, 5G) to send messages. An improved version of SMS, MMS (for “Multimedia Messaging Service”) then arrived to transmit longer and multimedia messages, thus paving the way for simplified sharing of photos, voice messages and videos from your phone.
Is SMS really going to die?
With the advent of the smartphone, social networks and the popularity of proprietary messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage, Signal or Telegram, users are gradually turning away from SMS. Indeed, these alternatives offer more interactive, practical and secure features for communicating. In this context, RCS presents itself as a natural evolution of SMS and MMS, meeting the new demands of users.
Like the messaging applications mentioned above, RCS messages require an internet connection. This can be considered a limitation compared to SMS, which passes via the mobile network. The latter therefore remains relevant when you do not have a mobile or Wi-Fi connection. Google Messages also switches from RCS to SMS automatically based on this criterion.
What does the RCS protocol bring compared to SMS and MMS?
RCS messages, which according to Google have more than a billion users, were designed to offer an enriched messaging experience compared to what SMS and MMS offer. Here are some of the key features of RCS chats that are not found on older protocols, or have been improved:
- Better security: RCS chats in Google Messages support end-to-end encryption. The identity of senders is also verified, in particular to limit the risk of fraud.
- High definition images and videos: these are natively supported in the application. You can also share GIFs and stickers.
- Larger files: Continuing from the previous point, RCS allows you to send images up to 2 MB and videos up to 10 MB.
- Read receipts: to see if your recipient has received and read your message. The date and time are also specified.
- One-click replies: RCS messages can suggest a series of one-click replies.
- Group chats: Connect with friends, family, and coworkers without having to use another app.
- Google Wallet integration: When you receive, for example, a boarding pass via Google Messages, you can add it to Google Wallet with one click.
Are RCS messages available on iPhone? Yes, but…
After initially refusing and then hesitating, Apple finally gave in at the end of 2023, announcing that the company would support RCS messages. In the meantime, Google took the opportunity to mock its competitor in a fake ad that mocks the lack of innovation in Apple’s messaging.
China appears to have played a key role in Apple’s decision, twisting the company’s arm into adopting RCS. Indeed, the Chinese government will require 5G smartphones sold in its country to adopt RCS technology. Given the importance that China plays in Apple’s sales, the American company could not do otherwise. Obviously, this is not the reason given by Cupertino to justify its decision:
“We believe RCS Universal Profile will provide a better interoperability experience compared to SMS or MMS. It will work with iMessage, which will continue to be the best and most secure messaging experience for Apple users,” a brand spokesperson said in November 2023.
Apple then confirmed during WWDC 2024 support for RCS messages on iPhones compatible with iOS 18. If the speed of adoption of this version of the OS is equivalent to previous ones, this would translate into a billion additional RCS users by summer 2025.
Unfortunately, RCS messages come to the iPhone without a key feature: message encryption. On Android, Google Messages uses the E2EE protocol to do this, but Apple doesn’t find it secure enough and says it wants to work with the GSMA to “evolve RCS and make messaging fairer and more secure.”
One last point on which Apple did not wish to backtrack: messages from Android users will continue to be displayed in green on iMessage, with blue remaining the color of users who have the privilege of paying to buy products marked with the apple.
Xiaomi, Samsung, Honor: how to read RCS chats on my Android?
To enjoy RCS on your Android smartphone or tablet, here are the steps to follow:
- Download the “Google Messages” app.
- Open the app and click on your profile picture in the top right.
- Then select “Messages app settings”, then “RCS chats” and finally “Turn on RCS chats”.
- There it’s done !
This procedure is valid on all devices that run Android and are therefore compatible with Google Messages. You will have no trouble enjoying it on your Xiaomi smartphone or your Samsung tablet, among other brands.
How to turn off RCS messages?
To disable RCS chats, simply follow the same procedure as above to enable them. Once messages are enabled and you click on the “Enable RCS Chats” tab again, a window will appear asking “Disable RCS Chats?”. All you have to do is click “Disable”.
How to delete RCS messages?
When you are in a conversation on Google Messages, you can select one of the messages you sent by long-pressing it. A small bar is then displayed at the top of the screen, with a trash can icon. Select there, then confirm your deletion request. You can select multiple messages to delete them at once. Finally, note that messages are only deleted for you, but not for your interlocutors.
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By: Opera
