Apple has finally introduced RCS messaging in iOS 18. While it is currently in beta, we will see a full RCS implementation in iOS 18.

Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a more advanced and inclusive way of communicating than SMS or MMS. It enables chats between Apple and Android users and is similar to third-party messaging services such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

But RCS also has potential problems. Because it’s tied to your provider, there’s likely to be more provider intervention and less innovation in the long run (which is why such features are ultimately left behind). RCS also has security and privacy issues, and users shouldn’t be forced to use it if they don’t want to.

Luckily, for iPhone users, Apple has added a switch that allows you to disable RCS on your iPhone.