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Soon, Indian Android users can use Apple's blue bubble chats

Soon, Indian Android users can use Apple's blue bubble chats

  • 17.03.2025 08:55
  • newsbytesapp.com
  • Keywords: RCS Messaging, Cross Platform Communication, Business Communications, Telecom Operators

Apple is in talks with Google to bring its RCS messaging to Indian Android users, aiming to boost cross-platform communication beyond SMS and WhatsApp dominance. While some telecoms like Airtel have opted out due to spam concerns, this move could significantly impact business communications.

Apple ServicesAlphabet ServicesAAPLsentiment_dissatisfied

Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is working with Google to bring RCS messaging to India, which could enhance cross-platform communication and impact business communications in the country.

Google

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Google has partnered with telecom operators Vodafone Idea and another operator (unnamed) for RCS. Their collaboration with Apple aims to expand RCS globally, including India, which could boost their market position in messaging services.

Airtel

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Airtel has decided not to partner with Google due to concerns about spam identification, potentially limiting their involvement in the RCS ecosystem.

Vodafone Idea

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Vodafone Idea is collaborating with Google on RCS, which could enhance their messaging services and market position in India.

Context

Analysis of RCS Messaging Rollout in India: Business Insights and Market Implications

Global RCS Implementation

  • Countries: RCS is operational in the US, UK, France, Spain, Belgium, China, and others.
  • Collaboration: Apple's iMessage client runs on Google's backend servers, integrated with carrier networks.
  • China Exception: Uses alternative server vendors due to Google's absence.

Indian Market Dynamics

  • Partnerships: Apple plans to partner with Google in India, following global collaboration models.
  • Telecom Operators:
    • Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio are on board.
    • Airtel has opted out due to spam concerns, citing issues with identifying spam messages via RCS.

User Experience and Business Impact

  • No Change: Users won't notice backend integration; messages will use mobile data/Wi-Fi as usual.
  • Business Communication: Potential improvement in A2P messaging for sectors like banking and e-commerce.

Market Implications

  • Competition: Intensifies competition with WhatsApp, positioning RCS as a strategic tool for cross-platform communication.
  • Regulatory Considerations: Telecom operators' concerns hint at potential regulatory influences on spam management and service adoption.
  • Long-term Effects: Widespread RCS adoption could alter user behavior and business strategies, fostering new services and features.

This analysis highlights the strategic moves by tech giants, challenges faced by telecom operators, and the transformative potential for businesses in India's messaging landscape.