RCS in iOS 18: Apple’s updates and what’s next for iPhone support

Apple made a significant move in September 2024 by rolling out Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging in iOS 18. This update introduced features like higher-resolution media sharing, read receipts, and improved group messaging between iPhone and Android devices using RCS messaging, creating a more seamless experience for everyone.   

Apple first teased this big upgrade back in late 2023 but kept most details under wraps until WWDC in June 2024, when Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior VP of Software Engineering, confirmed that RCS would be coming to the Messages app with iOS 18.   

Now that RCS on iPhones is officially live, let’s explore why this upgrade is so compelling for the future of communication.

Messaging between iPhone and Android users has long been frustrating due to SMS and MMS limitations, such as low-quality photos and videos, limited message length, and no interactive features. But with RCS in iOS 18, that all changes. This update has significantly improved messaging quality and consistency, making chats between Android and Apple devices much smoother.

Key new features available between iPhone and Android devices via RCS include: 

• Read receipts 

• Typing indicators 

• Large photos and videos 

• Voice memos 

• Named group chats 

• Tapbacks/reactions 

Want to try RCS on iOS 18 for yourself? First, you need to make sure that your carrier supports RCS and that your iPhone is running iOS 18 — your iPhone may already have RCS turned on. 

If not, on your iPhone, open “Settings,” scroll down and tap Apps, and find and tap “Messages.” Under “Text Messaging,” you’ll see an RCS Messaging option if it’s supported by your carrier and your operating system. Just toggle it on, and you’ll be all set to test out enhanced messaging in iMessage.

RCS support in iOS 18 doesn’t just improve person-to-person messaging – it’s also a game-changer for businesses using application-to-person (A2P) messaging, too. And that’s because in iOS 18.1, Apple began rolling out RCS for Business (previously called “RCS Business Messaging” or “RBM”) in select markets, allowing brands to engage with customers in more interactive, secure ways.  

Currently, RCS for Business support on iOS is expanding gradually, with availability dependent on carrier adoption and regional support. As more carriers enable RCS, businesses can reach a growing number of iPhone users with rich, engaging messages that go beyond traditional SMS.

While we don’t know yet when there will be global A2P RCS support, Apple’s gradual rollout signals strong momentum. Businesses that use RCS will be able to provide customers with:  

• Full enterprise profiles including contact information 

• Verified senders 

• Read receipts  

• Suggested reply buttons 

• Multiple-choice carousels 

• Ability to share location, send quick-dial buttons, and save-to-wallet functions 

• …and so much more.

Apple has continued to improve RCS support in the iOS 18 lifecycle. In summer 2024, some lucky beta testers got an early taste of RCS in iOS 18 in beta programs through carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. And then, according to MacRumors, the iOS 18.4 update, released in March 2025, expanded RCS chat compatibility to users with additional U.S. carriers.

Internationally, RCS support has also grown. In France, carriers like Orange and Sosh also have RCS available with iOS 18.4 beta 2.

While Apple introduced RCS in iOS 18, it launched with an older version: RCS Universal Profile 2.4. Now, Apple has confirmed that an upcoming software update will include RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which will include end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for messages. 

This update is significant because E2EE was previously only available on iMessage and Google Messages, but not between platforms. Once Apple implements Universal Profile 3.0, iPhone and Android users will have secure, encrypted conversations regardless of the device or platform they use. This will bring RCS security more in line with over-the-top (OTT) apps like WhatsApp. 

Apple hasn’t provided an exact timeline for this update, but 9to5Mac speculates that it will arrive sometime during the iOS 19 lifecycle. Tom Van Pelt, Technical Director at the GSMA, explains why this is such an important development. 

Apple’s support of RCS in iOS 18 is just the beginning of better, more engaging messaging for all. We’ve already seen exponential growth in RCS use by businesses, and as the messaging standard becomes more widely available, we can only expect this to accelerate.

At Sinch, our expertise lies in our global super network, our strong, direct relationships with mobile operators, and our in-house experts focused on helping brands build their RCS branded messages strategies. Our strong partnership with Google and experience implementing RCS for the likes of Picard and EasyPark means we’re in an ideal position to continue helping brands create engaging experiences for their customers.

_{Listen to Miriam Liszewski, RCS Commercial Product Manager at Sinch, discuss a few ways that companies can use RCS for marketing and to improve customer experience.}

We’re not just ready for RCS to be available on all devices – we’re actively driving that change. Our platform is fully equipped to handle the demands of RCS, providing businesses with the tools and support needed to take advantage of it. 

Ready to jump on the RCS bandwagon? Get in touch with our team or download our comprehensive RCS guide that will walk you through how to make the case to bring RCS into your organization.