This morning head of Android Hiroshi Lockheimer said to expect more RCS at MWC although he did not go into much detail of what we may see. Google’s Head of RCS, Amir Sarhangi has outlined what to expect in the future for RCS.
In a post on the Google Blog Mr Sarhangi has given a few specifics regarding the current state of RCS. He stated that they were working with 43 carriers and device manufacturers to bring RCS native messaging to every Android user.
He discussed how brands can use RCS to bring more value for their customers detailing how some companies are already using RCS as a way to enhance their business through the Early Access Program. Companies from a range of businesses such as food, travel, retail and delivery services are using the program in the US and Mexico.
RCS allows businesses to send useful, interactive messages to their customers — such as images of products that then allow the user to select those they want to purchase. This is all done within the default Android Messaging app.
Examples of companies already using RCS include Sprint, 1-800 Contacts, 1-800 Flowers, Booking.com, Mobivity, OpenMarket and Smooch. Google is also currently working with Telcel to bring the service to companies in Mexico such as DHL Mexico.
To make RCS universal worldwide Google are working with numerous carriers and manufacturers around the world including TCL/Alcatel/Blackberry, Huawei, Essential, LG, HMD Global, HTC, Motorola,Sony, Vodafone and ZTE (along with Pixel and Android One devices) to bring Android Messages preloaded as the default messaging app on new devices.
At MWC Google and their partners will demonstrate how businesses can use RCS to enhance their interactivity with their customers. We hope to see some Australian representation there, given Telstra have already signalled their RCSs intentions.
We have reached out to the other providers for any local information and will pass it on as soon as we receive it: You can be sure Dan will be in the ear of any carrier employee he spies while over at MWC 2018.
