Buzz
The Messages app, based on Rich Communication Services (RCS), has recently been made available by Google in the Vietnamese market since September 20, 2020. Testing this feature on some devices with SIM cards from the three major carriers, the results revealed that only a select few devices can utilize this service. Primarily, phones running near-stock Android such as Android One (Nokia, Motorola), some OnePlus devices, and even certain Samsung models. But is it truly compatible with all devices?First, I experimented with the Nokia 7.2, and the service was immediately activated. I then inserted a MobiFone SIM card, and that was it... good to go.
Moving on to the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core, unlike the Galaxy A01, the A01 Core runs on Android Go Edition. Trying out Google Messages and setting it as the default messaging app, it successfully activated and operated with Vinaphone network.Now, the story unfolds with the Nokia 2.2. Initially, the app reported that the Viettel network SIM was not supported. Trying to install a version of Google Messages similar to the one on the Nokia 7.2, and checking if Carrier Services was the latest version, despite multiple attempts, the Nokia 2.2 couldn't utilize RCS. Interestingly, when I inserted the Viettel SIM into the Nokia 7.2, it worked perfectly. This indicates that SIMs from the major carriers in Vietnam are all compatible (I don't have VNM or G-tel SIMs, so if anyone tries, feel free to comment below).
Afterward, delving into information and exploring the list of OEMs collaborating with Jibe Mobile, the service provider acquired by Google, it's not surprising that certain devices are compatible. However, the case of the Nokia 2.2 illustrates that each device from these OEMs needs support through updates (similar to security updates), rather than simply installing the latest version of the Google Messages app.Here is the information from the Jibe Mobile page https://jibe.google.com/partners/oems/In general, the delayed development of the RCS messaging platform by Google hasn't demonstrated truly convenient experiences, especially in a time where many chat applications like Facebook Messenger, Zalo, Telegram, Whatsapp, Viber are widely used. A significant challenge is devices not receiving simultaneous updates. Hopefully, Google will continue to enhance this platform, providing Android users with a messaging tool integrated with a more convenient SMS composer.
For those interested, Google Messages currently supports sending various types of information through a user-friendly interface similar to traditional SMS, including GIFs, emoticons, current location, contact numbers, attached files, voice recordings, and integrates with the Google Duo video calling app.Have you successfully installed Google Messages on your Android devices? Feel free to share in the comments below.
