AT&T has announced a partnership with Google to develop an application similar to iMessage for Android. Messages by Google would become the default messaging app on all phones with the tech giant's operating system.
This would mean that all AT&T subscribers will have access to Rich Communication Services (RCS) as well as messages through Google's built-in encryption capabilities. RCS would effectively bring some iMessage features to all Android devices through its native Google Messages app.
The application will include simple functions, such as an animated indicator that will let you know that your interlocutor is writing his answer. It also enables smart features such as Wi-Fi messaging and high-resolution photos and video. Of course, Apple should adopt RCS for it to run on multiple platforms.
Google is hoping to gain more ground with the similar iMessage app
Google has been pushing operators to RCS since announcing compatibility with its messaging app in 2019. Along with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless is the latest to enter the table, even though RCS is available on some Samsung devices.
AT&T subscribers will also have access to the other benefits of Google Messages, including full-resolution photo sharing, high-quality video messaging, read notifications, and the ability to send and receive Wi-Fi messages. Group chats will also work a little more smoothly, provided other people use Android devices and have RCS available.
Google's message fragmentation has not yet been resolved. But with a market share of nearly 45% of the US in AT&T, we hope it will set fire to Verizon, the second largest operator. It's time for Big Red to abandon its Verizon Messages app in favor of the Google stock app that Android users want to use.