A new feature that allows Android users to edit texts sent to iPhone users is being tested by Google in the texts app.

This editing feature was exclusive to Android phones up until now.

Why Does This Matter?

The RCS (Rich Communication Services) standard, the next-generation SMS substitute, has been upgraded, making this move possible.

The upgrade specifically makes use of Universal Profile 3.0, a new standard that enhances communication between Android and iPhone platforms.

To edit a message, long-press the message you wish to change.

When the pencil icon appears, tap it.

The typing box displays the initial message.

The message can be edited and sent again.

After sending, you will have fifteen minutes to make any necessary adjustments.

Connecting Android to iMessage

Similar to how iMessage functions on iPhones, Android users may now edit text messages thanks to this new functionality.

However, there are still significant variations in the way the messages show up on different devices.

How Edited Messages Appear on iPhone vs. Android

On Android: The altered message seamlessly and neatly replaces the original.

On an iPhone, the modified message shows up as a new message, typically marked with an asterisk (*) to indicate that it has been corrected.

Thus, in brief interactions, the original message may still be unclear.

Testing is still ongoing.

Only a limited number of beta users are currently able to utilize this function.

Before making it more widely available, Google is gathering input and testing its functionality.

No formal launch date has been set yet.

When this will be made available to everyone has not been confirmed by Google.

Editing RCS communications sent to Android devices is still not possible for iPhone users.

Apple will have to update its Messages app to allow editing within RCS in order to achieve complete compatibility.

Android Users Can Now Edit Messages Sent to iPhones via Google Messages

Why Does This Matter?

Author: Ufaq Ahmed Ansari