Key Points:
- Dual-SIM RCS feature is now available on Galaxy phones through Google Messages.
- Allows high-quality messaging on both SIM cards simultaneously.
- Expected to roll out to all users soon, following beta testing.
RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a cutting-edge messaging technology that enhances text communication, making it more advanced than traditional SMS. It offers features similar to those found in popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, without needing to install additional software. Even Apple is adopting RCS to improve messaging between iPhones and Android devices. Until now, Android users could only use RCS on one SIM card at a time. However, this is changing with an update to Google Messages.
Recent reports from India show that some Samsung Galaxy users are now experiencing dual-SIM RCS on their phones. A user shared a screenshot on Reddit showing RCS active on both of their SIM cards (BSNL and Jio networks). This new functionality is part of the latest Google Messages beta version (20240813_00_RC00).
Many people, particularly in India and other regions, use two SIM cards on their phones. Previously, RCS could only be used on one SIM card, limiting its usefulness. With the new dual-SIM RCS feature, users can now enjoy enhanced messaging on both lines. Google is testing this feature and plans to release it more broadly soon.
This isn’t the first time Google has experimented with dual-SIM RCS. The feature was tested before but was later withdrawn. There is hope that this time it will be permanently included in the Google Messages app’s stable release.
RCS provides real-time typing indicators, read receipts, high-resolution image and video sharing, stickers, and group chat capabilities. It operates over Wi-Fi as well as mobile data. Apple has announced it will introduce RCS to iPhones with iOS 18, which is currently in public beta, but it’s only available in select countries.
To support RCS, Samsung has decided to replace its Galaxy phones’ default Samsung Messages app with Google Messages, starting with new LTE models.
