Google backs GSMA RCS initiative with Android client

Nieuws Mobiel Wereld 22 FEB 2016
Google backs GSMA RCS initiative with Android client
Google has given its backing to the GSMA's Rich Communications Services initiative, aimed at developing new forms of messaging services for mobile operators.The initiative will enable operators worldwide to provide an open, consistent, and globally interoperable messaging service across Android devices, the GSMA announced. Operators have agreed to transition toward a common, universal profile based on the GSMA’s RCS specifications and an Android RCS client provided by Google in collaboration with operators and OEMs. Operators including America Movil, Bharti Airtel, Deutsche Telekom, Etisalat, Globe Telecom, KPN, Millicom, MTN, Orange, Play, Smart Communications, Sprint, Telenor, TeliaSonera, Telstra, TIM, Turkcell, VimpelCom and Vodafone also support the project. 

By aligning on a universal RCS profile, mobile operators will be able to deploy a consistent RCS implementation, feature set, and configuration. The Android RCS client provided by Google will be based on the universal profile, enabling consumers to access RCS services on their devices. Features such as group chat, high-resolution photo sharing and read receipts will become part of the operator messaging experience. GSMA RCS advanced calling features will also be supported in the future by Google.

The universal profile can be implemented by other operating systems and will be supported by a formal GSMA accreditation process. Google will also provide an open source version of the client based on the universal profile specification and will provide developer APIs to enhance the RCS client experience. 

First announced in 2007 and also known under the name Joyn, RCS has been launched by 47 operators in 34 countries around the world. The GSMA expects the partnership with Google "will greatly simplify and accelerate adoption of the technology". In the global rollout of RCS, mobile operators can deploy their own infrastructure or they have the option to use the Jibe Platform from Google, which supports the universal RCS profile. The Jibe Platform includes a hosted cloud for individual operators to launch RCS services for all mobile operating systems and the Jibe Hub to interconnect operator RCS networks.

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Mobiel

Companies:

KPN,  Orange,  Sprint,  Telenor,  Telia,  Telstra,  TIM,  Vodafone,  Turkcell,  MTN,  America Movil,  Bharti Airtel,  Google,  GSMA-India,  Millicom

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Messaging, Launch, Cooperations & alliances, Network equipment, Wholesale, Handsets

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