Google Messages rolls out end-to-end encrypted group chats


Google marks the 30th anniversary of SMS (Short Message Service) with end-to-end encryption for group chats in the Messages app. End-to-end encryption for group chats is also only available to Messages users who have recently participated in the beta programme.

Google also mentioned RCS, which stands for Rich Communication Services and is what nearly the entire industry has accepted as the next generation of cross-platform texting. It was further said that although RCS is used by the majority of mobile companies, one of them is lagging behind.

Nevertheless, it’s finally time after 30 years of SMS messaging. So, for each decade that SMS has existed, here are three key arguments for why the entire industry should support RCS.

End-to-end encryption is starting to roll out for group chats

End-to-end encryption is possible with RCS, but not with SMS. This means that one-on-one texts sent through Messages by Google, for example, are encrypted so that only the sender and the recipient can see them.

End-to-end encryption is starting to roll out for group chats
React to RCS messages with any emoji

Furthermore, SMS texting lacks many of the capabilities of smartphones, but RCS allows you to send and receive high-quality images and videos, view real-time typing indicators and receipts, name group discussions, add or remove friends from group chats, and communicate over Wi-Fi.

Messages by Google will soon let you react to RCS messages with any emoji
Most of the mobile world is already using RCS

Google says RCS is generic, meaning it works no matter where you reside, who makes your phone, or what it runs on. All major mobile carriers and manufacturers now use RCS, except Apple. Apple refuses to use RCS and relies on SMS when iPhone users text Android users, keeping their texting in the 1990s.

Most of the mobile world is already using RCS
Availability

Google Messages’ end-to-end encryption is starting to roll out for group chats over the next few weeks, and the feature to react to RCS messages with any emoji will be coming soon.

Announcing the features, Neena Budhiraja, Group Product Manager, Messages by Google, said:

Most of the mobile world is using RCS, but there is one company that’s dragging its heels. But after 30 years of SMS texting, it’s truly time. So here are three big reasons why the whole industry should get behind RCS — one for every decade SMS has been around.