Finally, Apple’s Messaging Application to Integrate RCS and Introduce Text Scheduling Feature

Amongst the array of updates rolling out with iOS 18 for Apple’s iMessage and Messages app, standout features aren’t limited to the AI-generated Genmoji or the innovative satellite text messaging capability. The highlight, however, lies in the eagerly-awaited functionality to schedule messages for future delivery and the implementation of Rich Communication Services (RCS). These integrations are designed to streamline and enhance messaging, especially across platforms to Android users. These enhancements are now being trialed in the public beta version of iOS 18, which was recently launched.

Despite the fanfare surrounding AI enhancements and various user interface improvements announced at WWDC 2024, these specific messaging enhancements promise to revolutionize daily communications significantly.

For an extended period, the user base’s strong inclination towards message scheduling has prompted the development of convoluted stopgaps. These include reminder apps or systems functioning solely on modified iPhones. With the latest iOS, users are furnished with an in-built capability to schedule messages, simplifying the process considerably.

This scheduling function was briefly highlighted at WWDC. According to an Apple press release, this feature was mentioned alongside enhancements to Tapbacks, now expanded to support any emoji or sticker within iOS 18. It appears Apple does not regard the “Send Later” feature as a significant highlight. However, this feature is poised to be a valuable asset for business communications via iPhone and for individuals recalling essential messages at inopportune moments, such as late at night. It enhances convenience, for example, by allowing users to send messages across different time zones without disruption, and ensures timely gestures like birthday messages are never overlooked.

Of noteworthy mention is the integration of RCS within the Messages app, marking a leap forward in the standard messaging protocol and addressing the long-standing challenges in communicating with Android users identified by the distinctive green bubble.

Google has long advocated for Apple’s adoption of RCS to elevate the messaging experience between Android and iOS interfaces. Notably, discussions around messaging dynamics, such as the ‘green bubble’ issue and its impact on social perceptions, have exacerbated demands for interoperability. Although regulatory bodies have not compelled Apple to make such modifications, increasing scrutiny and legislative interest in the matter have likely influenced Apple’s decision to support RCS.

Apple’s historical hesitation to embrace RCS meant missing out on features like typing indicators, read receipts, and high-quality media sharing in messages to Android users. It also omitted end-to-end encryption available in iMessage.

However, as per Apple’s disclosures, messages transmitted via RCS will maintain the green bubble identity, albeit with an informed note that the conversation now supports both “Text message + RCS”. This announcement signifies Apple’s forthcoming adaptation to support RCS, which aims to enrich media sharing and ensure more reliable group messaging compared to the conventional SMS and MMS protocols.

Initial reports suggest Apple’s willingness to collaborate with GSMA to integrate end-to-end encryption within the RCS Universal Profile, although this feature will not be available immediately. This delineation might explain the absence of encrypted messaging discussions in Apple’s RCS announcement.

This article was initially released on June 11 and has been updated to reflect the availability of the iOS 18 public beta.