Google Asks Regulators to Make Apple Open Up iMessage

Google Takes Aim at Apple’s iMessage: Seeks to Open Up Messaging Platform to Foster Competition

Google is asking regulators to force Apple to open up iMessage, its messaging platform for iPhones. Google believes that iMessage should be designated as a core platform service under the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which would require Apple to make it interoperable with other messaging apps.

Google has been critical of Apple for not supporting Rich Communication Services (RCS), a standard that would allow iMessage users to communicate with users of other messaging apps, such as Google Messages. RCS supports features such as read receipts, typing indicators, and file sharing.

Apple has said that it is not interested in supporting RCS because it believes that iMessage is a better product. However, Google argues that Apple’s refusal to support RCS is harming competition and innovation in the messaging market.

The EU’s Digital Markets Act is designed to prevent large tech companies from abusing their market power. If iMessage is designated as a core platform service, Apple would be required to make it interoperable with other messaging apps. This would allow users to choose the messaging app that they prefer, regardless of what type of phone they have.

It is unclear whether regulators will agree with Google’s request. However, the company’s lobbying efforts could put pressure on Apple to change its stance on RCS.

It is unclear whether regulators will agree with Google’s request. However, the company’s lobbying efforts could put pressure on Apple to change its stance on RCS.