iOS 18.4 Finally Brings RCS Messaging to Google Fi and Other T-Mobile Carriers

Abstract

• iOS 18 eventually added support for RCS messaging, benefiting many users, but initially excluded T-Mobile-based operators.
• The second iOS 18.4 beta now brings RCS messaging capabilities to Google Fi on iPhone and other T-Mobile-based carriers.
• This update also includes new features such as priority application notifications, visual smart shortcuts, new emojis and Apple app shortcuts.

Apple released iOS 18 in September 2024, and with it comes the long-awaited RCS messaging feature—at least for some. Google Fi and other T-Mobile-based operators were left out, but that situation eventually resolved.

After Google's years of attempts to put pressure on, Apple finally added support for RCS messaging in iOS 18. While this is a significant advance for many, it disappoints users using T-Mobile-based virtual network operators such as Google Fi. As a Google Fi user and an Android user with an iPhone spouse, this is very frustrating.

As I wrote before, the responsible party in this case has never been completely clear. Carriers, Apple, and Google (in the case of Google Fi) all seem to play a role in delayed implementation. However, Apple seems to be the most likely culprit, and in fact, it is the iOS update that solves this problem.

Everyone, everyone, everyone, iOS 18.4 Beta 2 has just added RCS support for Google Fi (and other T-Mobile MVNOs), and I can finally die happily ?????[Image or Embed] — David Imel (@davidimel.com) March 4, 2025 1:45 pm

Now, with the launch of the second iOS 18.4 beta, any obstacles seem to be cleared. Google Fi users can finally enjoy the benefits of RCS, including read receipts, input indicators, and better media sharing when sending messages to Android users. This update brings a much-needed balance to the messaging experience, bridging the long-standing gap between iPhone and Android.

It's not just Google Fi that ends up getting RCS messaging on iPhone. T-Mobile-based operators that did not have RCS on iPhones before include Mint Mobile, Tello, Ting, Ultra Mobile, and Optimum Mobile.

The second iOS 18.4 beta version is now open to the public. You simply use a supported iPhone to join the beta program and the update will be sent to your device. If you are interested in new RCS support, be sure to go to Settings >Apply> Messages, and if not enabled, enable "RCS Messages".

Of course, iOS 18.4 is not just RCS support for more carriers. You can now prioritize notifications from specific applications. If you are using an iPhone 15 Pro, you can activate Visual Intelligence from the Action Buttons and Control Center. In addition, there are new toggles in the control center for quick access to Apple Intelligence and Siri.

You will also find seven new emojis to enrich your text – including my favorite “face with bags under the eyes”. For those who prefer shortcuts, Apple apps such as books, news, Safari, and maps have new actions. The Wallet app has received a new three-point menu, and you can even pause app downloads directly from the App Store.

iOS 18 is compatible with the following iPhone models:

• • iPhone 16e
  • iPhone 16
  • iPhone 16 Plus
  • iPhone 16 Pro
  • iPhone 16 Pro Max
  • iPhone 15
  • iPhone 15 Plus
  • iPhone 15 Pro
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 14
  • iPhone 14 Plus
  • iPhone 14 Pro
  • iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13

• • iPhone 13 mini
  • iPhone 13 Pro
  • iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12
  • iPhone 12 mini
  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11
  • iPhone 11 Pro
  • iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone XS
  • iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone SE
  • (Second Generation or later)

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