The beta testing of iOS 18.4 is now underway, and with the release of beta 2, it introduces highly anticipated RCS messaging support not only for Google Fi users but also for other significant US carriers, including Mint Mobile and Boost Mobile. Here are the updates.
Mint Mobile and Boost Mobile Gain RCS Support, Joining Google Fi and Others
RCS messaging is a newly integrated feature in iOS 18 that enhances the texting experience between iPhones and Android devices.
This enhancement is due to RCS being a more advanced messaging protocol compared to the older SMS standard.
However, implementing RCS support in iOS 18 did not guarantee universal access for all iPhone users immediately, as each carrier is responsible for setting up its own support for RCS.
Major US carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile have already offered RCS on iPhone for some time.
Several smaller carriers have also adopted RCS messaging, but notable exceptions have included T-Mobile MVNOs like Mint Mobile and Google Fi until now.
Now with the launch of iOS 18.4, full RCS support is available for all T-Mobile MVNOs, including:
- Metro by T-Mobile
- Mint Mobile
- Boost Mobile
- Google Fi
- and more
RCS Features and Compatibility in iOS 18.4
If you are using the iOS 18.4 beta 2 or plan to upgrade to the public release next month, you will have immediate access to RCS in the Messages app.
You can check if your carrier supports RCS by following one of these methods:
- Navigate to Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Messages and scroll to the RCS Messaging section
- Or go to Settings ⇾ General ⇾ About and tap the Carrier row to confirm if RCS is displayed
RCS offers several advantages over SMS, allowing for various features similar to iMessage, such as:
- tapback reactions
- sending high-resolution photos and videos
- read receipts
- typing indicators
While RCS conversations still appear with green bubbles instead of blue ones, you are less likely to encounter the typical issues associated with SMS.
Are you looking forward to RCS support for Mint Mobile and Google Fi? Share your thoughts in the comments.
