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New Chat messaging Service
Google rolls out new Chat messaging service that will replace SMS text messages on Android phones.
16:07 24 April 2018
Google has started the global roll-out of its new Chat messaging service, which features videos, group texts, read receipts and typing indicators. The new service is meant to replace SMS text messages on Android phones.
The service is very similar to Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Apple’s iMessage, which support advanced features, including high-resolution pictures and typing indicators.
Mobile operators, app-makers and phone manufacturers will be able to use Google’s new service to develop messaging apps that are compatible with one another. Google worked with more than 50 mobile networks and manufacturers to develop Chat.
The service will allow Android users to take advantage of the advanced features when messaging other Android users. If the intended recipient is not using a device compatible with the service, messages will be sent via the old SMS system.
It is important to note that Chat is not a new Google app. Since Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a communications standard, it is up to individual phone makers and mobile network to switch on the service.