Texting between iPhones and Androids has been a notably unpleasant experience for years. Green text bubbles are just the tip of the iceberg, as cross-messaging users are forced to endure low quality images, limited reaction functionality, and a lack of read receipts. The company has a history of being forced into compliance, with the EU’s decision to force Apple to use USB-C charging cables on its future devices. Hopefully that will change soon, though, with Google imploring Apple to finally ditch its outdated technology and get with the times when it comes to texting.
Texting with friends shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why it’s time for Apple to #GetTheMessage. Learn more ↓ https://t.co/guGdlHT2k8 — Google (@Google) August 9, 2022 If you’ve ever texted your Android-using friend with an iPhone or vice versa, you know the problems are plentiful. The green text bubbles are a start, but messaging between the two operating system is missing a lot of other great features, like high quality images and videos, end-to-end encryption, texting over Wi-Fi, read receipts, typing indicators, reactions, and the ability to leave group messages. And the reality is that Apple is causing these issues. That’s right, when texting between iOS and Android, Apple converts messages to SMS and MMS, a comparatively ancient technology from the 1990s and early 2000s. Conversely, Apple could utilize Rich Communication Services (RCS), which is the industry standard, allowing all texters to enjoy these features, regardless of operating system. Wouldn’t that be nice? Fortunately, that won’t be the case for much longer. The EU ruled earlier this year that all smartphones sold in Europe will be required to have USB-C charging ports, a ruling clearly directed at Apple. In 2020, Apple has firmly stood against such regulation, stating: However, Apple seems to be buckling on this firm stance, with reports showing that iPhones are going to be sporting the universal charging standard as early as next year. Will Apple succumb to the same pressure when it comes to text messaging? Or will we be stuck with green message bubbles for the rest of our days?
