Google is updating its Messages app by adding new organization features and multimedia support in a fresh attempt to push the RCS protocol.
RCS (Rich Communication Service) is a communication standard It aims to replace the old SMS (Short Message Service) protocol. A more recent standard allows for “richer text features”, higher quality content, and end-to-end encryption for improved security, According to Google (Opens in a new tab). That’s pretty much what users will get in this update, although the app’s security won’t see any improvements.
Google’s stated goal is to “improve messaging between Android and iOS.” [devices]”Screen Multiple technology industry bodies Pushing for widespread RCS adoption. But there was an important player standing in the way: Apple, which refused to adopt the protocol.
New features
earlier this year, Google Messages got an update that allows it to display emoji reactions (Opens in a new tab) iPhone users. This latest installment is all about helping people deal with messy group chats.
Messages will now begin to suggest actions when it detects certain types of text. For example, the app will suggest pinning texts with important details in them, such as addresses or phone numbers, for better tracking. If he recognizes a message like “Can you talk now?” , the app will suggest to call that person and show the Google Meet icon for quick access.
Reminders will be further integrated into the app, allowing you to set future notifications directly from messages without opening anything else. Individual messages can be answered directly, either via text messages or emojis, but you will first need to enable RCS.
In terms of multimedia support, it’s about making things more efficient. Voice messages sent through the app will be transcribed automatically thanks to the new Voice Message Transcription feature. Google points out that this can be especially useful if you’re in a crowded place. Moreover, YouTube videos can be viewed within messages.
Google also mentioned that it will be testing a new feature in select countries. Through messages, the feature will allow you to speak directly to companies in the Search and Maps apps. We have come to the question of which countries will own this tool. This story will be updated if we hear back.
The update won’t be coming out for a few more weeks, but you can download a file Messages app directly from the Google Play Store (Opens in a new tab) Immediately.
Apple’s decision
It will be interesting to see if these recent Messages app updates push Apple to finally adopt RCS. When asked about this at the Far Out eventTim Cook, the company’s CEO, claimed that iPhone users don’t really care about the protocol, so Apple didn’t see fit to support it. Apparently, enough users don’t mind cross-platform messaging disconnect. Plus you have options like The WhatsApp on the iPhone if people really want to support RCS.
However, it is not beyond the realm of possibilities. At one point Apple said it wouldn’t put a USB-C port on iPhones, but it looks like it will by 2024 The European Union has signed a law forcing them to do so. There is certainly no administrative body requiring Apple to adopt the RCS remote control system, but it is facing increasing pressure from the industry. Even Mark Zuckerberg took a shot at Apple in a Last post on Instagram (Opens in a new tab) on iMessage’s lack of E2EE.
If you are interested in secure messaging, be sure to check out Best TechRadar Encrypted Messaging Apps for Android.