In an effort to bridge the long-standing gap between iOS and Android users, Apple has recently announced plans to adopt Rich Communication Services (RCS) by 2024. RCS has been the go-to messaging protocol for Android for quite some time, facilitating advanced messaging features across various Android smartphones. Despite its own unique ecosystem, Apple has historically chosen a different path, shunning RCS in favor of its proprietary solutions. This reluctance has not marred the user experience but certainly limited interoperability with non-Apple devices. The upcoming inclusion of RCS within iPhone devices could herald a significant transformation in mobile communications, yet the beloved iMessage service will continue unaffected—for now.
The Prompt Behind Apple’s Adoption of iPhone RCS Support
Driving Apple’s recent policy changes is the need to comply with the European Union’s regulations, particularly the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Passed by the European Parliament on September 14, 2022, the DMA aims to democratize the digital market by designating certain key companies as “gatekeepers” and ensuring they do not hinder competition. The Act, which took effect on November 1, 2023, requires these gatekeepers to prove their platforms contribute to a fair and competitive digital marketplace. Apple’s previous stance against RCS could have been construed as a barrier to such an environment. Providers of core platform services, including Apple, are now pressed to enhance the interoperability of their services with other ecosystems. While Apple’s iMessage service has been scrutinized, it remains relatively untouched, though RCS implementation is proceeding to ensure cross-device communication.
Hefty fines and ongoing penalties loom over companies that fail to adapt within the six-month compliance period mandated by the European Union.
Implications of RCS Support on the iPhone Experience
Amidst regulatory compliance efforts, Apple is determining how to integrate RCS without impacting its signature iMessage service. The introduction of RCS is poised to offer iPhone users several enhancements, including end-to-end encryption, high-quality media sharing, and read receipts, which could reduce dependency on third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Google, a strong advocate for RCS integration on iPhones, has campaigned extensively, albeit humorously, for Apple to abandon SMS in favor of RCS. Regulatory pressures in the EU now necessitate Apple’s compliance.
Everybody should have secure and modern messaging without worrying what kind of phone they’re texting to. So glad to see Apple joining our ongoing work with the GSMA on RCS to make texting better for all! 🙏https://t.co/C2eS2OeNxc
— Hiroshi Lockheimer (@lockheimer) November 16, 2023
In another scenario indicative of the EU’s influence, Apple has also yielded its exclusive Lightning port in favor of adopting the ubiquitous USB-C standard, further unifying charging solutions. In contrast, Google faces separate legal concerns in the U.S. regarding its search engine’s market dominance.
As governments worldwide begin to scrutinize the tech industry with more intensity, it’s clear that tactics such as gatekeeping and monopolization—which hinder market competition and innovation—are undergoing reevaluation. With this evolving landscape, all eyes are on the anticipated changes that the iPhone’s support for RCS will introduce in 2024.
