Google is updating its Messages app, adding new organizing features and media support as part of a new effort to push the RCS protocol through.
RCS (Rich Communication Service) is a communication standard which aims to replace the old SMS (Short Message Service) protocol. A more modern standard allows for “richer text functions”, higher content quality and end-to-end encryption for better security, according to Google (opens in a new tab). And 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 communication between Android and iOS [devices]”Because many tech industry bodies are pushing for the universal adoption of the RCS. But one major player stands in the way: Apple, which refused to accept the protocol.
New Features
Earlier this year, Google News has received an update that allows you to see emoji responses (opens in a new tab) from iPhone users. This latest party focuses on helping people deal with messy group chats.
Messages will now start suggesting actions when they detect certain types of text. For example, the app will suggest pinning texts with important details such as addresses or phone numbers to better track them. If it recognizes a message such as “Can you chat now?”, The app will suggest connecting to that person and display the Google Meet icon for quick access.
Reminders will be further integrated into the app, allowing you to set future notifications right from Messages without opening anything else. You can reply to individual messages directly, with text or emoticons, but you must enable RCS first.
When it comes to multimedia support, it’s more about boosting performance. Audio messages sent via the app will be automatically transcribed thanks to the new voice message transcription feature. Google points out that this can be especially useful if you’re in a crowded space. In addition, YouTube videos can be watched on Messages.
Google also mentioned that it will be experimenting with the new feature in select countries. With Messages, this feature will allow you to talk directly to businesses found in Search and Maps. We contacted to ask which countries will have this tool. This story will be updated if we get a reply.
The update won’t roll out for another couple of weeks, but you can download it The News app straight from the Google Play Store (opens in a new tab) just now.
Apple’s decision
I wonder if these latest News app updates will persuade Apple to finally adopt RCS. When asked about it at a Far Out party, CEO Tim Cook said iPhone users don’t really care about the protocol, so Apple hasn’t seen fit to support it. Apparently enough users don’t mind disconnecting cross-platform messages. Plus you have options like WhatsApp on iPhone if people really want that RCS support.
However, this is not beyond the realm of possibilities. At one point, Apple said it wouldn’t be putting a USB-C port on iPhones, but now apparently by 2024. The European Union has signed a law that compels them to do so. Granted, there is no governing body to order Apple to adopt RCS, but it is facing increasing pressure from the industry. Even Mark Zuckerberg shot Apple in last post on Instagram (opens in a new tab) about the lack of E2EE in iMessage.
If you are interested in safe messages, be sure to check Best TechRadar Message Encryption Apps for Android.