Beeper becomes first RCS chat app for iPhones, introducing support for Google Messages with RCS

Beeper, the multiprotocol chat app with unified inbox, has introduced support for Google Messages with RCS, becoming the first RCS chat app for iPhones.

Rich Communication Services protocol, an enhanced version of SMS that Google has been encouraging Apple to adopt, offers advanced features like end-to-end encryption, read receipts, typing indicators and cross-platform compatibility. Despite Apple's resistance to adopt it due to the presence of similar features in its iMessage on iPhones, Beeper's recent update allows users to access RCS-supported Google Messages on their iPhones, albeit in its beta stage.

The new function works correctly, allows users to send and receive emoji reactions and display 'tapbacks'. However, there are a few known issues. Display picture avatars are not visible, past chat history isn't fully synchronized, read receipts aren't supported for group chats, and typing indicators aren't yet active.