Google Messages app will transform MMS chats into RCS

Google Messages will be updated with the ability to turn MMS into RCS chats. The company is preparing to make some major improvements in its messaging app. The development pops up amid Apple’s long-awaited RCS rollout to iMessage.

APKTeardown hints that Google Messages will update old cross-platform chats to RCS. Messages sent in group chats will automatically transform into RCS chats. Currently, the app turns the entire conversation into SMS and MMS if participants from iPhone and Android users.

Strings of code found in the Google Messages app suggest old conversations will be transformed into RCS. The feature is currently under development. However, the app’s latest Beta version brings references related to upgrading old chats. Flags needed to enable the feature:

• bugle.enable_mms_group_upgrade_ui_home_screen
• bugle.enable_mms_group_upgrade_ui_conversation_screen

Once deployed, the Google Messages app will inform users that “You’ve got upgraded chats.” It is also expected that the app will allow sharing of sharper photos with videos with reactions. Interestingly, iOS 18 Beta brings RCS to iPhone users, but a wider rollout is still awaited.

Code:

<string name=”upgraded_group_label”>Upgraded chat</string>
<string name=”group_upgrade_popup_title”>You’ve got upgraded chats</string>
<string name=”group_upgrade_popup_description”>Send sharper photos and videos with reactions — free over wifi. %1$s</string>
<string name=”group_upgrade_close_button_icon_description”>Close dialog</string>
<string name=”group_upgrade_about_rcs_link”>About cross-platform RCS chats</string>