RCS Update to Enable Native Video Calls Between Galaxy Phones and iPhones
The messaging landscape between Android and iOS devices is poised for a significant upgrade with the forthcoming Rich Communication Services (RCS) Universal Profile 4.0. This update promises to introduce native video calling directly within messaging applications, a feature long anticipated to bridge the communication gap between platforms.
Introducing RCS Universal Profile 4.0
RCS, developed over a decade ago as an enhanced successor to traditional SMS, has evolved to improve messaging without reliance on third-party applications. The adoption of RCS by Apple for iPhones in late 2024 marked a pivotal step toward better cross-platform communication. Now, the GSMA, the governing body for mobile standards, has announced the next evolution: RCS Universal Profile 4.0. This version introduces several key enhancements designed to modernize the messaging experience.
Key Features and Enhancements
The headline feature of RCS 4.0 is native video calling. This functionality will integrate a video call option directly within the messaging app interface, allowing users to initiate calls seamlessly without switching to separate applications. A related feature, Message-Initiated Video Calls (MIVC), enables users to start a video call from within a chat thread. This is particularly useful for group conversations, as it allows participants to join or leave the call dynamically.
Beyond video calling, RCS 4.0 brings text formatting options such as bold, italics, and strikethrough, giving users more expressive tools in their messages. The update also further improves the quality of shared media, including audio, images, and videos. For business messaging, RCS 4.0 adds support for embedded streaming videos and provides users with more control over link behavior, allowing them to choose whether links open within the messaging app or an external browser.
Timeline for Implementation
Despite the promising features, RCS Universal Profile 4.0 is not expected to reach consumer devices in the immediate future. The rollout of new RCS versions typically follows a gradual adoption curve. RCS Universal Profile 3.0, announced earlier in 2025, has yet to achieve widespread deployment and is anticipated to roll out more broadly later this year. Based on this progression, industry timelines suggest that RCS 4.0 will likely be implemented on Android and iPhone devices sometime in late 2026 or early 2027.
Conclusion
The introduction of native video calling via RCS Universal Profile 4.0 represents a significant step toward a more unified and feature-rich messaging ecosystem between Android and iOS. By eliminating the need for third-party apps for basic video communication, this update has the potential to streamline cross-platform interactions. While the wait for its full implementation may extend into 2026-2027, the announced features underscore a continued commitment to enhancing the core messaging experience for users worldwide.