Google Messages has only allowed RCS (Rich Communication Services) on a single phone number since its launch. However, the app now adds dual (multiple) SIM support, bringing significant improvements for users with dual SIM devices.
Updates to Dual SIM RCS Support
August 17 Update
Back in January, there were reports of dual-SIM RCS support in Google Messages, but the feature was eventually removed. Now, it appears the capability has been reintroduced. A beta user on the Nothing Phone 2 reported seeing two SIM cards “Connected” in the RCS settings. There's also a new “Backup format for sending attachments” setting labeled “SMS with links.” This could indicate the return of the Google Photos video upload feature, which was quietly removed last year.
Original Report, January 4
The first beta release of the new year, version 20240102_00_RC01, included several strings related to multi_SIM RCS support:
– `
Send and receive RCS chats on SIM %1$d when you verify your number `
– `SIM %1$s RCS Passthrough `
– `Your IT admin has turned off RCS chats for all SIMs. %1$s `
– `RCS chats will be disabled for all numbers `
– `RCS chats will be disabled for both numbers `Gizchina News of the Week
Google has said from the outset that “RCS chats are available now for your default or preferred calling SIM, and will be available for other SIMs later.” It looks like the company is now moving forward with adding support that's crucial to RCS' international adoption. Dual-SIM users will see multiple numbers in Settings > RCS chats, and some visual tweaks like checkboxes next to each number instead of the generic SIM card icon.
January 5th Update
Users are now seeing dual SIM RCS support go live. They can choose which number they want to use for RCS calling. However, according to current reports, the second number cannot be set up yet as Google has not enabled the server-side elements for dual/multi SIM RCS support in Messages.
Importance of Dual SIM RCS Support
The addition of dual SIM RCS support is a significant improvement for global users. Many people, especially in regions where dual SIM phones are prevalent, will benefit from this feature. It allows for better management of personal and business communications on the same device. The ability to choose which number to use for RCS calls adds flexibility and convenience.
Solution
Google Messages’ dual-SIM RCS support is a major step in improving the app’s functionality and making it more versatile for users with multiple phone numbers. While the feature is still in the rollout phase and isn’t fully functional yet, its availability in beta suggests full support is coming soon. This update is a major improvement to the user experience for those who rely on dual-SIM phones and RCS for their messaging needs.