In the second beta version of iOS 18 released yesterday, Apple added the RCS toggle, but RCS messaging didn't work at the time. According to reports from iOS 18 users, RCS support appears to be rolling out now.
Some testers who have iOS 18 installed have confirmed that they can use the RCS feature to send RCS messages to Android users. RCS-based text that is not SMS/MMS-based is marked with the RCS label.
Rich Communication Services (RCS) allows iPhone and Android users to exchange higher quality photos and videos, audio messages, and larger file sizes. Features like read receipts and real-time typing indicators are also supported, and you can see the full list of new features available below.
- Supports high-resolution photos and videos.
- Supports larger file sizes and file sharing.
- Audio message.
- Cross-platform emoji reactions.
- Real-time input indicator.
- Read your receipt.
- Ability to send messages over cellular or Wi-Fi (SMS is cellular only) There is no cost to send RCS messages over Wi-Fi.
- Group chat has been improved.
RCS Messaging can be enabled in the Messages section of the Settings app and is turned on by default. Currently, RCS messaging is only available to users in the United States with carriers that support RCS. T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon users running iOS 18 should have the RCS toggle available, but users with MVNOs and smaller carriers can't get the feature yet.
Not all iOS 18 users with T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon will see RCS enabled, so it looks like Apple is rolling out support.
iOS 18 is currently in beta and only available to developers. RCS will be available to all iOS 18 users when the software launches to the public this fall.
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