RCS (Rich Communication Services) technology is an advanced messaging protocol designed to enhance the functionality and user experience of traditional SMS messaging. It allows users to send messages with features such as read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media sharing, and group chats. RCS also supports features like video calling, file sharing, and location sharing, bringing it closer to the capabilities of other popular messaging apps. Unlike SMS, RCS operates over data networks and requires support from both the mobile device and the carrier. It aims to provide a richer and more interactive messaging experience for users across different devices and networks. Google and Apple have previously clashed regarding using RCS as a standard for smartphone messaging, with Apple choosing to remain out of this. As per the latest news, popular US telecom operator, AT&T has started utilizing Google‘s Jibe platform for RCS-powered messaging.
Google acquired Jibe Mobile in the year 2015
While all mobile carriers support RCS, some, like AT&T, have relied on their own backend systems instead of Google’s Jibe platform. However, a lot of customers will be extremely happy as AT&T has recently announced its transition to the Jibe platform, aligning with other carriers and promising a superior RCS messaging experience for its customers. This transition brings a lot of perks, as users had previously criticized AT&T’s servers for a subpar RCS messaging experience. Shifting their users to Google’s tried-and-tested solution is expected to improve performance and reliability across the board. Moreover, AT&T’s default messaging system will now harness the power of the Jibe platform, ensuring that users can enjoy the “latest RCS features instantly,” as highlighted by Google SVP Hiroshi Lockheimer in the tweet.
Google has been working diligently to enhance RCS since acquiring Jibe Mobile in 2015. Along the way, they encountered obstacles, including resistance from carriers. However, it seems that all parties (well, most of them) have finally aligned their interests. Users can verify if their Messages app is utilizing Jibe by navigating to the app’s Settings, tapping RCS chats and scrolling to the bottom of the page.
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