Google Messenger is now “Android Messages”, will provide RCS, an upgraded SMS service

Google has rebranded its Messenger app as “Android Messages” to provide enhanced messaging experience to Android users worldwide.

SMS or text messaging is a universal way of staying connected but despite its ubiquity, SMS hasn’t evolved to take advantage of all the features that smartphones offer today. RCS (Richer Communication Service) is an upgraded form of SMS that lets users access all those features from their default texting app.

Google has recently announced a partnership with Telenor to launch RCS messaging to their millions of subscribers across Europe and Asia, including Pakistan. The partnership extends to about 27 carriers and device manufacturers.

What is RCS & Android Messages?

RCS is part of the new Advanced Messaging standard of GSMA designed to enrich messaging functionality that comes installed on phones by default. In addition to sending text messages, RCS will also allow for higher resolution picture sharing, group chats, location sharing, and read receipts by default.

Android Messages supports RCS, SMS and MMS so people can message all their friends regardless of their network or device type. Google will continue to improve and add new features.

Smartphone Brands with preloaded Android Messages

Android Messages will come preloaded as the native messaging app in smartphones. These smartphone brands include LG, Motorola, QMobile, Sony, HTC, ZTE, Micromax, General Mobile, HMD Global – Home of Nokia Phones, Archos, BQ, LeEco, Cherry Mobile, Condor, Fly, Lanix, MyPhone, Lava, Kyocera, Symphony and Wiko, Pixel and Android One devices.

Improving Business with RCS

Businesses mostly use plain text messages to communicate with their customers with information such as package delivery, bank fraud alert etc. RCS upgrade will enable them to have a richer interaction. For example, a seat confirmation message from your airline will now provide a full check-in experience, complete with boarding pass, flight updates, and terminal maps, all within the messaging experience.

Google is creating an ‘Early Access Program’ which will allow businesses to learn and build with the technology and be first to offer their customers an advanced messaging experience. Companies such as Uber, Subway, Virgin Trains and many more are participating in the program.