Last year, when Apple revealed its decision to implement RCS support on iPhones, it marked a significant milestone in the realm of technology and communication. The integration paved the way for seamless messaging between iPhones and Android devices without relying on SMS, an outdated and less secure messaging standard that often leads to frustrating group chat experiences, subpar image and video quality, and the notorious “green bubble” conversations.

Despite the excitement surrounding the official launch of RCS with iOS 18, certain challenges persisted. Notably, the feature allowing end-to-end encryption—which is RCS’s most notable advantage—was not operational at the time of launch (and remains non-functional). Consequently, messaging between Android and iPhone users via RCS maintained the same level of insecurity as traditional SMS. Furthermore, access to the full range of RCS features on an iPhone depends on the carrier; initially, only prominent providers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile extended RCS support. Users who opted for other carriers found themselves left out.

However, the landscape has shifted since then, with an increasing number of carriers embracing the RCS standard for iOS, making it likely that your iPhone is now ready to engage in RCS messaging with Android devices.

According to a report by 9to5Mac, Apple’s documentation has been updated to reflect the current roster of carriers that support RCS, as of December 23. The list includes:

• AT&T

• Boost Mobile (iOS 18.2 or newer required)

• C Spire

• Consumer Cellular

• Cricket

• FirstNet

• H20 Wireless

• Metro by T-Mobile

• PureTalk

• Red Pocket

• Spectrum Mobile

• T-Mobile

• TracFone / Straight Talk

• US Cellular

• Verizon

• Visible

• Xfinity Mobile

Despite these advancements, the two notable exceptions in RCS support remain Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile, which collectively serve around three million customers. Surprising as it is, considering their acquisition by T-Mobile earlier this year, the delay in adopting RCS is unexpected, although it is anticipated that these carriers will incorporate RCS capabilities soon.

For those looking to confirm RCS is enabled on their device, access can be gained through Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging. It’s important to remember that even with RCS settings activated and carrier support verified, it may not be available for all communications with Android users. The counterpart’s device, its carrier, and the specific messaging application must also support RCS. If the recipient does not have RCS enabled for various reasons, SMS will be the fallback messaging protocol for that conversation.