Google today said Huawei has committed to using Android Messages, the search company's RCS-based messaging service, as the default SMS/MMS tool on its phones. RCS, a global standard, includes advanced messaging features such as texting over WiFi, group chat, high-resolution photo sharing, and read receipts. Huawei joins a long list of phone makers, carriers, and even brands that have added RCS to their messaging services. In the U.S., Sprint has adopted Google's RCS, as have phones from LG, Motorola, Sony, HTC, ZTE, and Kyocera. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon continue to use their own messaging services, though RCS-like features are included when people message others on the same carrier. Samsung has adopted its own RCS-based messaging app, but its use is limited to select carriers overseas. Android Messages supports normal SMS protocols, meaning it can interact with any and all devices whether or not RCS is on board. In addition to adopting RCS, Huawei device owners will be able to make video calls directly from Android Messages through carrier ViLTE and Google Duo. Last, Google and Huawei are working together to offer the Jibe RCS cloud and hub solution via Huawei's telecommunications services, which will broaden the reach of RCS to more users around the world over time.


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