Apple Finally Embraces 5G Messaging: Goodbye Green Bubbles, Hello Cross-Platform Seamless Communication

Apple Finally Embraces 5G Messaging: Goodbye Green Bubbles, Hello Cross-Platform Seamless CommunicationWith the widespread adoption of smartphones, cross-platform instant messaging has become a necessity for users. However, due to technical barriers, iPhone users have been unable to seamlessly communicate with Android users through text, pictures, and videos

Apple Finally Embraces 5G Messaging: Goodbye Green Bubbles, Hello Cross-Platform Seamless Communication

With the widespread adoption of smartphones, cross-platform instant messaging has become a necessity for users. However, due to technical barriers, iPhone users have been unable to seamlessly communicate with Android users through text, pictures, and videos. This has led to a "bubble" division in communication between Android and iPhone, where iMessage messages between iPhone users appear as blue bubbles, while SMS messages with Android users are green. This not only creates a divide in user experience but also leads to discrimination and bullying.

The advent of 5G messaging breaks this awkward situation. It allows iOS devices and Android devices to exchange multimedia messages such as high-definition images, voice, video, text, and real-time location through SMS. Additionally, 5G messaging introduces a "read receipt" feature, previously only available in iMessage and other instant messaging apps.

Recently, Apple released iOS 18.1 Beta4, bringing numerous new features and performance optimizations. Most notably, the version significantly improves communication capabilities by adding support for RCS messaging (i.e., 5G messaging). This means that Apple users will no longer need to download apps or worry about accounts; 5G messaging can be directly accessed from the SMS interface.

Apple and Android's 5G messaging designs differ, but both prioritize user convenience. Apple's 5G messaging utilizes a card-style layout, avoiding full-screen occupation and featuring rounded corners. When multiple cards are stacked, the back cards reveal only the top right corner, displaying the image count in the top left corner. Video messages can be played directly within the same interface, eliminating the need for redirection. Additionally, Apple's 5G messaging includes an options list, including "suggested replies" and "suggested actions," facilitating quick completion of various functions.

Android terminal card buttons are embedded within the cards, while the floating menu is located horizontally above the text input box. Both card buttons and the floating menu can be configured for "suggested actions" or "suggested replies." In terms of fixed menus, Android terminals are placed at the bottom of the message window, while Apple terminals are positioned in the top right corner, tucked away in a "magic door" icon. Clicking the icon expands the menu buttons vertically.

Apple's shift in stance towards 5G messaging has garnered significant attention. Previously, Apple CEO Tim Cook had avoided the issue of iPhone's lack of RCS support by stating, "You can get your mom an iPhone." However, with strong support for RCS messaging from competitors like Google, Samsung, and major domestic carriers and smartphone manufacturers, Apple has finally decided to embrace 5G messaging.

Currently, OPPO, Samsung, and ZTE phones fully support China Mobile's 5G messaging, while Xiaomi's Pengpai OS terminals and Huawei, Honor, Vivo, etc., also support the feature in their privilege versions. With the arrival of iOS 18, Apple phones have joined the ranks, ushering in a new era of cross-platform seamless communication.

iPhone 5G Messaging Update Instructions:

1. Download and install Developer from the App Store.

2. Go to Settings - General - Software Update, and select Beta version update.

3. After updating, go to Settings - Messages, and find the RCS messaging switch to turn it on.

The launch of 5G messaging brings users a more convenient and richer communication experience. As technology continues to evolve, cross-platform instant messaging will become increasingly sophisticated, ultimately realizing truly seamless communication.