Apple’s RCS Support:
A Game-Changer for Messaging
In a significant shift for the telecommunications landscape, Apple has announced support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) in its latest iOS 18 update, rolling out in September 2024. This move is expected to transform messaging between iPhone and Android users, enhancing communication and setting the stage for robust business messaging opportunities.
The Growth of RCS
According to a recent study by Juniper Research, global revenue from RCS business messaging is projected to soar from $1.3 billion in 2023 to $8 billion by 2025. A key driver of this growth will be Apple’s integration of RCS, which is predicted to increase the number of active RCS users by 900 million, bringing the global total to an impressive 2.1 billion within the next two years. This surge will make RCS a compelling option for enterprises, encouraging more telecommunications operators to adopt and roll out RCS technology on their networks.
Enhancing User Experience
With RCS, messaging between iPhones and Android devices will be markedly improved. Users will enjoy features like typing indicators, read receipts, and the ability to send high-resolution images and videos. Previously, cross-platform messaging often resulted in the degradation of media quality due to reliance on SMS and MMS. Now, RCS promises a more seamless experience, making it easier for users to communicate effectively.
Business Messaging Potential – The power of RBM
One of the most exciting aspects of Apple’s RCS rollout is its potential for RCS Business Messaging (RBM), particularly in application-to-person (A2P) communication. While RCS on iOS 18 currently focuses on person-to-person messaging, plans for RBM are already in motion. As beta testing for RBM progresses, businesses could soon leverage features like verified sender statuses, rich media integration, and interactive messaging capabilities.
Projections suggest that RCS could emerge as an essential tool for businesses, offering a secure and feature-rich alternative to traditional messaging channels. With Apple now on board, RCS provides companies with enhanced capabilities to engage their customers, bridging the gap between standard SMS and modern messaging apps, while supporting richer interactions and more secure communications.
The introduction of RCS support in iOS 18 marks a pivotal moment for both Apple and its users. By facilitating richer, more interactive messaging between iPhone and Android users, Apple is not only enhancing the user experience but also opening doors for businesses to engage with their customers in more meaningful ways. As the telecommunications sector evolves, the rise of RCS will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of communication. With Apple leading the charge, the potential for RCS to redefine messaging standards is immense.
HORISEN – The RBM Enabler Leading the Way in RCS Integration
As Rich Communication Services (RCS) becomes the new standard for messaging, HORISEN is ready to help brands unlock its full potential through RCS Business Messaging (RBM). With Apple’s recent support for RCS in iOS 18, the messaging landscape is on the brink of transformation, and we believe this shift is imminent.
RBM empowers businesses with rich, interactive messaging experiences, enabling dynamic customer engagement. At HORISEN, we’ve already integrated RCS into our Business Messenger, equipping brands to craft compelling communication strategies.
Given the rapid adoption of previous iOS versions, we expect users to quickly embrace RCS, potentially adding over one billion new users by summer 2025. Our strong partnerships with mobile operators and deep expertise in RBM implementation position us as the ideal partner to guide brands through this exciting transition.
We are not just prepared for RCS; we are actively driving its integration across all devices. Our platform provides businesses with the tools they need to maximize RBM’s capabilities and revolutionize their customer interactions.
Ready to explore the power of RBM? Contact our team to discover how to integrate RBM into your business strategy.
