Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a communication protocol that enhances the functionality of messaging by allowing users to send multimedia messages like videos, images, and audio messages, as well as group chat, and see when the recipient is typing. RCS is designed to provide a more engaging and interactive experience for users. It is gradually being adopted by carriers across the world as the standard for messaging. Interestingly, Apple has announced that the iPhone will be getting RCS support in 2024. This is great news for iPhone users who have been eagerly waiting for this feature.

Apple has told 9to5 Mac that RCS will be coming to the iPhone, bringing many different iMessage features such as enhanced group chat support, read receipts, and security built-in. It will also work over Wi-Fi, which is great for at home and in areas with poor cell service. Along with this, Apple could add location sharing in text threads.

While this brings iMessage-like features to green bubble chats, iMessage is here to stay. It still has end-to-end encryption, stickers, and check-in, which will not be available with RCS. Apple has also made clear that iMessage is much more secure than RCS. To clarify, this is not Apple opening up iMessage, it's Apple adopting RCS. While RCS is there, SMS/MMS will be available along with RCS in case of any issues.

Even with the introduction of RCS, the green bubbles we know and hate are here to stay. Apple later confirmed that RCS messages will remain green, making the messaging change more stealthy to average consumers.

In conclusion, the adoption of Rich Communication Services (RCS) by Apple is a significant step towards enhancing the messaging experience on the iPhone. With RCS, iPhone users will be able to send multimedia messages, enjoy enhanced group chat support, and see when the recipient is typing. RCS will also work over Wi-Fi, which is great for areas with poor cell service. Though iMessage will remain the more secure and feature-rich messaging app, RCS will bring some of the iMessage-like features to green bubble chats. Overall, the adoption of RCS by Apple is great news for iPhone users who have been eagerly waiting for this feature.