Google is always striving to conquer some new corner of the tech industry. Their latest endeavor comes in the form of the text message. The company has teamed up with Sprint and other mobile services to try their hand at text messaging and challenge the popular Facebook Messenger and Apple iMessage services.
GOOGLE, SPRINT AND OTHERS INTRODUCE RCS TO THE WORLD
Until now, Facebook Messenger and Apple iMessage have used SMS and MMS to send text and picture messages. Now, Google, Sprint, and another big name mobile carriers seek to introduce a new form of communication. Rich Communications Services, or RCS, will let users start group chats, send high-quality photos and a whole lot more. Video calling is rumored to be included as well. These features aren’t particularly new. iMessage and others already have some of these qualities. The purpose of RCS however, is to simplify. A speciality of Google.
FACEBOOK MESSENGER AND APPLE iMESSAGE SAFE FOR NOW
At the moment, just how RCS will be implemented isn’t well known. For now, Facebook Messenger and Apple iMessage are the dominant services but this could very well change if RCS is the one stop shop that Google says it will be. Though Google is working with Sprint and T-Mobile, they aren’t sure that RCS will even work across all carriers. Obviously, we do know that it will be supported by Android but the transition to full functionality will take some time. Another large concern for the process is AT&T and Verizon. The two companies have not signed on to the plan yet. This could cause an issue for Sprint and smaller companies if RCS doesn’t become a universal standard.
ANDROID’S RCS HAS HIDDEN GOAL
While RCS is certainly a big threat to Facebook Messenger and Apple iMessage, it’s sole purpose is not to put them out. Working with Sprint and 19 other carriers is just the first step towards a better messaging service for all Android users. Even if mobile users flock to RCS, it’s the main goal may not be reached. Ideally, RCS hopes to find a solid revenue stream that will replace all text message fees. Since too many people use Facebook Messenger, Apple iMessage, and other apps, this will likely be difficult.
