iMessage for Android, thanks RCS!

Android users have a cause to rejoice because of RCS. An abbreviation for Rich Communication Services, RCS will offer the same level of functionality enjoyed by Apple users with iMessage. Baked into the Android Messages app, it adds on to the capabilities of the archaic SMS text messaging system.

RCS gives Android ‘SMS” the same level of functionality offered by messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram. Besides exchanging text messages, users will also be able to send and receive high resolution photos and videos. An like WhatsApp, users can also see if people have read their messages.

It works over Wi-Fi and mobile data, and brings a whole host of new features that were absent with SMS. It allows for group chats, with the ability to name groups, add or remove people in said groups. If you are already using Google’s Messages app, then chances are that you already have the chat feature enabled or will be prompted to enable it.

The main hurdle here isn’t the app itself, but carriers’ willingness to adapt RCS into their list of services. Google has started rolling out RCS and expects it to be widely available in the US by the end of the year. Those of us in other parts of the world will have to wait a little longer before we will be able to enjoy RCS functionality.

Photo Credit Source: Google