iOS 18.2: A Double-Edged Sword for Google and RCS
Apple's highly anticipated iOS 18.2 update, released on December 11th, 2024, has brought significant changes to the iPhone experience. While the update primarily focuses on enhancing Apple Intelligence features, it also introduces a groundbreaking change: the ability to customize default messaging and calling apps. This seemingly minor tweak has far-reaching implications, particularly for Google's RCS messaging strategy. The FBI's Impact on Messaging Preferences The recent FBI warning urging users to avoid SMS and MMS due to security vulnerabilities has ignited a global conversation about messaging privacy and security. In response, Apple's new feature allows users to switch to encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp as default options. This shift aligns perfectly with the FBI's recommendations, potentially diverting users away from RCS and toward more secure alternatives. Google's RCS Ambitions Challenged Google has invested heavily in promoting RCS as a …
