A big change has been seen in the world of technology. Apple Inc. has now introduced end-to-end encryption in RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging between iPhone and Android users. After this step, chatting between the two platforms will become more secure than ever. This feature is currently available in Beta phase and will be gradually rolled out for all users.
What is RCS and why is it special?
RCS i.e. Rich Communication Services is considered to be an advanced version of SMS. In this, users:
High-quality media sharing Typing indicator Read receipts Group chat features
Like modern messaging features are available.
Now with the addition of end-to-end encryption in this system, the chat will become completely secure and no third person will be able to read the messages.
What does end-to-end encryption mean?
End-to-end encryption means that no one except the sender and recipient—not even the service provider—can read the messages.
With the addition of this technology:
Chatting will be completely private, the risk of data theft will reduce, security from cyber fraud and hacking will increase.
Google’s long standing demand
Regarding this feature, Google was pressurizing Apple for a long time to adopt RCS and make it secure. Google believed that encryption was essential for secure messaging between iPhone and Android. Now after this step by Apple, the messaging experience between the two platforms has become much better and secure.
What will be the benefit to the users?
This change will directly benefit millions of iPhone and Android users:
Secure chatting between iPhone and Android Less risk of personal information being leaked Better messaging experience Secure conversations without any third-party apps
Rollout in beta phase
Currently this feature is not available for all users. It is being tested on limited beta users. After completion of testing, it will be gradually rolled out globally.
Tech experts believe that this step can prove to be a big change in the messaging industry and in future the SMS system can be completely RCS based.