iOS 18 Brings RCS Support for Improved iPhone-Android Messaging Experience

Apple today rolled out iOS 18 with support for RCS, which is a huge boost to the iPhone-Android messaging experience.

• RCS supports features like typing indicators, delivery and read receipts (which can be turned off), higher resolution media, and the ability to message over Wi-Fi and mobile data instead of just a carrier’s cellular network. Group chats controls let you easily leave conversations.
• Apple says when messaging contacts who do not have an Apple device, the Messages app now supports RCS for richer media and more reliable group messaging compared to SMS and MMS.
• After updating to iOS 18, iPhone owners don’t have to do anything, with the RCS Messaging toggle in Settings > Apps > Messages enabled by default. Conversations will automatically be upgraded from SMS to RCS.