Apple Inc. (AAPL  ) has introduced Rich Communication Services (RCS) support in its Messages app with the latest update in the iOS 18 second developer beta, marking a major enhancement in cross-platform messaging capabilities.

RCS allows for advanced messaging features like sending and receiving high-quality images, file sharing, seeing typing indicators, and getting read receipts, which were previously limited to iMessage interactions among Apple devices.

This update enables iPhone users to communicate more effectively with Android users, as RCS is supported by most Android phones signaling a move towards more inclusive communication technology, reported TechCrunch.

Prior to this update, iPhone users were restricted to sending basic SMS or MMS messages to non-Apple devices.

The new RCS functionality bridges this gap, allowing rich media exchanges and group chats across different device ecosystems.

Currently, the RCS feature is available only through major U.S. carriers such as T-Mobile US Inc (TMUS  ), AT&T Inc (T  ), and Verizon Communications Inc (VZ  ).

It is operational only if the carrier supports RCS and has updated their network for iOS 18. Apple has indicated that it plans to expand support to additional regions pending carrier updates.

The integration of RCS in iOS 18 follows Apple's announcement at the Worldwide Developer Conference earlier this month, highlighting the company's efforts to provide more seamless and inclusive communication options across different platforms.

Apple stock has gained more than 12% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT  ) and IShares U.S. Technology ETF (IYW  ).

Price Action: AAPL shares are trading higher by 0.82% at $210.64 in premarket at last check Wednesday.