iOS 18.2, released this week, brings more than just Apple Intelligence features. It also delivers long-awaited RCS support for Boost Mobile customers in the US. Originally teased last year and officially announced at WWDC 2024, this update finally allows Boost Mobile users on compatible iPhones to utilize Rich Communication Services (RCS) as an alternative to traditional SMS and MMS. The change was first spotted by a Reddit user, as reported by Android Authority.
RCS is widely considered the next step in text messaging, bridging the communication gap between Android and Apple devices. It offers significant improvements like high-quality media sharing, read receipts, typing indicators, and enhanced group chats. Previously, these features were exclusive to iMessage conversations between Apple users.
Google and Apple have taken different paths to RCS implementation. Google proactively integrated RCS into Android through Google Messages, bypassing carrier involvement. Apple, however, requires carrier support for RCS functionality. They maintain an official list of supporting carriers globally, which already includes US carriers like AT&T and Verizon, and now Boost Mobile.
Screenshots showing how to activate RCS in U.S.Activating RCS in iOS 18.2 (Bryan M. Wolfe / MaagX)
Boost Mobile customers can now enable RCS after updating their iPhones to iOS 18.2. To verify activation, open the Settings app, go to Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging, and ensure the toggle is switched on. If the RCS Messaging option is absent, the carrier might not have fully deployed the feature in your region.
In some cases, a carrier settings update might be required for proper RCS function. This can be initiated by navigating to Settings > General > About and selecting “Update” from the pop-up menu.
Besides RCS support for Boost Mobile, iOS 18.2 introduces a suite of Apple Intelligence enhancements for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series devices. These include ChatGPT integration with Siri, a redesigned Siri interface, Visual Intelligence, and Image Playground. The update also improves notifications, email categorization, and language support.
