Google is adding a major new features to RCS chats, one that will put it closer to feature parity with Signal and WhatsApp.
According to the folks over at Android Authority, a teardown of the latest Android APKs shows that Google is adding the ability to delete messages for everyone in a chat. This is a significant improvement over the current version of RCS chats included in Messenger, which only deletes a message on your local device, not for everyone else in the chat.
AA found code that shows users will have a choice between “Delete for everyone” and “Delete for me.” This is virtually identical to the options Signal and WhatsApp present users. The code indicates that Messages currently notifies users when a message is deleted, or when a user attempts to delete one.
RCS is the next evolution of traditional text messaging. Unlike its predecessor, SMS, RCS offers advanced features like those found in iMessage, WhatsApp, and Signal, including group management, read receipts, file transfers, and improved security.
Google’s initial implementation lacked a number of features, including end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and Delete for Everyone. As RCS adoption continues, however, Google is continuing to add features.
RCS also stands as one of the best options for cross-platform texting with Apple’s iMessae, with Apple finally adopting RCS for cross-platform conversations. The only major limitation is a lack of E2EE when communicating between platforms, but the two companies are working to resolve it.
As AA points out, there’s no guarantee the feature will make it into Messages but, if it does, it would be a welcome addition.