iOS 18.4 Brings RCS Messaging to Millions of iPhone Users on T-Mobile MVNOs

iOS 18.4 Brings RCS Support for New Carriers in Messages App

Apple has rolled out significant updates to the Messages app with iOS 18.4, expanding RCS (Rich Communication Services) support to a broader range of carriers. RCS offers enhanced messaging features such as typing indicators, read receipts, improved media sharing, and tapback reactions, making conversations between iPhone and Android users more seamless.

While major US carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have long supported RCS, many smaller and midsize carriers, including MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), were left behind. iOS 18.4 changes this by enabling RCS for several T-Mobile MVNOs:

• Boost Mobile
• Google Fi
• Metro by T-Mobile
• Mint Mobile
• Tello Mobile
• Ultra Mobile
• US Mobile

To check if your iPhone is using RCS, go to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging. If both you and the recipient have RCS enabled, you will see 'RCS' in the message box during conversations with Android users.

This update significantly reduces the number of carriers without RCS support, making messaging more consistent across different networks.