Tim Cook has spoken out about why Apple is not adopting RCS in messaging, claiming it is not interesting for Apple users - and urging people to buy iPhones.
On the Code 22 conference Tim Cook was asked why Apple refuses to support Rich Communication Services (RCS) in Messages. The question comes after Google pushed for RCS support, which would theoretically make Messages a new service. Tim Cook responded with the following:
I don't see our users demanding that we put a lot of energy into it. I would love to convert you to an iPhone.
Tim Cook: "Buy your mother an iPhone"
The anonymous questioner gave the example of the situation he is in with his mother. He would like to share videos with her, but she is an Android user and can only exchange text or SMS messages with him. Cook responded:
Buy your mother an iPhone.
The exchange ended at this point without either side addressing the fact that messages and RCS are a hot topic in the US but nowhere else. Outside the US, alternatives such as WhatsApp are much more common than Apple or Google's systems. Nor was it mentioned that RCS is still immature after many years, nor was it mentioned that Google is only pushing RCS because its own messaging alternatives have not been able to gain traction. In line with Cook's recommendation, you can find all the information about the new iPhones below. (Image: Apple)
- "Far Out" event: Apple presents iPhone 14 series
- "Far Out" event: These are the new iPhone 14 Pro models