MobileNews

Google rolls out next-gen RCS texting to Android users in the US

At long last, you can get next-gen text messaging on your Android phone in the US without vendor-specific support or resorting to unofficial tricks. Google is rolling out Rich Communication Services (RCS) support to Android Messages users across the US. When it arrives, you’ll be prompted to enable chat features in the app. RCS should be “broadly available” by the end of 2019, Google said.

This won’t be thrilling if you prefer an alternative app (like the one from your phone manufacturer), but it might be worthwhile for the benefits when you’re chatting with other RCS users. You can chat over WiFi, send high-quality media, see when people are typing and get read receipts. You can also easily manage and rename group chats.

There is a caveat: RCS doesn’t support end-to-end encryption like Apple’s iMessage, Facebook Messenger, Signal or similar services. Google has promised that it will only store messages while they’re in transit, but the truly privacy-conscious won’t want to use RCS for anything particularly sensitive. RCS is more an upgrade to SMS than its own messaging service, and that means dealing with similar privacy risks.

Check out the latest Samsung phones at great prices from Gizmofashion – our recommended retail partner.


Author: Jon Fingas
Source: Engadget

Related posts
AI & RoboticsNews

OpenAI makes ChatGPT’s image generation available as API

AI & RoboticsNews

Former DeepSeeker and collaborators release new method for training reliable AI agents: RAGEN

AI & RoboticsNews

Google adds more AI tools to its Workspace productivity apps

Cleantech & EV'sNews

Chevy Blazer SS EV first drive, over 600hp and 300 miles of range!

Sign up for our Newsletter and
stay informed!