iOS 18 RCS Messaging: Expanded Carrier Support

Expanded RCS Messaging Support on iOS 18

Apple's iOS 18 introduced RCS messaging, enhancing texting between iPhones and Android devices. This upgrade allows for read/delivery receipts, larger file transfers, and typing indicators.

Initially, only major US carriers supported RCS. Now, a wider range, including MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), has joined. The updated list of supported carriers includes AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Boost Mobile (iOS 18.2 required), C Spire, Consumer Cellular, Cricket, FirstNet, H20 Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, PureTalk, Red Pocket, Spectrum Mobile, TracFone/Straight Talk, US Cellular, Visible, and Xfinity Mobile.

Notable exceptions are Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile, despite their acquisition by T-Mobile. For more on T-Mobile's activities, see Xiaomi HyperOS 2 Update.

Key Improvements with RCS

• Read and delivery receipts
• Larger file sharing
• Typing indicators

While iOS 18's RCS support is expanding, it's not universal. This rollout mirrors some of the challenges faced by other new technologies, as discussed in Apple News Not Loading on iOS 18.2? Fix. For those interested in Apple's performance, check out Apple Q1 2025 Earnings Announced.