Google wants to move Android users away from traditional SMS to Rich Communication Services (RCS), according to a report by Engadget.
In 2015, Google bought Jibe Mobile with the aim of speeding up the process, and getting mobile operators like Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone to adopt RCS.
This has paid off, according to the report, with operators recently agreeing to take up the “iMessage-like” standard.
RCS offers features like group chat, photo sharing, and read receipts.
“The GSMA group that represents the carriers says that the Android system will be supported by a formal accreditation process and be available for other operating systems,” stated the report.