iOS 18 brings RCS to major carrier iPhones, but prepaid plans are still waiting

With iOS 18, Apple has introduced Rich Communication Services (RCS) allowing cross-platform messaging with enhanced features like read receipts and high-quality media sharing.

RCS messaging between iPhones and non-iPhones will not be encrypted, contrasting with iMessage's exclusive encryption between Apple devices, which raises privacy concerns.

The rollout of RCS in iOS 18 is not guaranteed for all users yet, particularly affecting those on MVNOs or pre-paid plans who lack support.

Google confirms that they are waiting for Apple to enable RCS on a network basis, which affects cross-platform communication for iPhone users on Google Fi.

Read at Ars Technica