Apple brings more carriers on board for RCS messaging with iOS 18.2 update

After years of Android users enjoying the benefits of Rich Communication Services (RCS), Apple finally stepped into the arena with iOS 18. While the initial rollout was limited, Apple is making serious headway in supporting RCS messaging on iOS. With the latest iOS 18.2 update, RCS support is rolling out to more carriers and regions for smoother conversations across platforms.

If you’ve ever texted a friend on Android and wondered why your messages lacked pizzazz — no read receipts, typing indicators, or high-quality images — RCS is here to fix that. Apple’s iOS 18.2 update adds several carriers to its RCS — supported list, including O2 UK, Three UK, Giff Gaff, Boost Mobile, and Tesco Mobile.

For Mint Mobile users, however, RCS support is scheduled for Q2 2025. When asked about it on Reddit earlier this month, co-founder Rizwan Kassim shared that it’s not happening this month. “By Q2 is what I’m hearing (and no later than that.),” he said. “Pushing on it to try to move up, though.”

With iOS 18.2 update, more iPhone users in these regions can now enjoy features like typing indicators, end-to-end encryption, and full-resolution media when messaging Android users. It’s a significant step forward in bridging the gap between the two ecosystems, making cross-platform texting less of a headache.

Google has been nudging Apple to adopt RCS for ages, and it seems the Cupertino giant has finally listened, albeit cautiously. iOS 18 was the first step, bringing initial RCS support to iPhone users with compatible carriers. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Updates like iOS 18.1.1 disrupted RCS functionality, leading to complaints from users who found the feature suddenly glitchy.

RCS isn’t just about cool features; it’s also about modernizing communication. Unlike SMS, which is limited in functionality and lacks encryption, RCS is built for the smartphone era. Features like group chats, read receipts, and secure messaging bring a richer experience, aligning more closely with messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal.

But is RCS perfect? Not quite. Reports suggest a rollercoaster of reliability, especially in the early days of iOS support. Even with iOS 18.2, some users might encounter hiccups depending on their carrier’s implementation. Also, there are still security and privacy concerns to consider, especially given that Apple’s RCS implementation doesn’t include end-to-end encryption.

Apple has yet to update its official RCS support page with the latest carrier additions, but the iOS 18.2 update is a clear signal that the company is committed to expanding RCS functionality.

While Apple’s journey into RCS territory hasn’t been perfect, it’s clear they’re in it for the long haul. So, update your iPhone to iOS 18.2, check your carrier, and enjoy richer, smoother messaging with your Android friends.