In the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe, people are relying on messaging more than ever to stay connected with their loved ones. Messages by Google is yet another tool that helps its users to initiate a video call to help you connect safely across the globe. The tech giant has now revealed that it has completed the global rollout of Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging chat features to make this modern messaging experience universal for everyone on Android device.
According to Google, “For the past few years, we’ve worked with the mobile industry and device makers on several carrier networks in certain countries to provide chat features in Messages based on the open Rich Communication Services (RCS) standard. The chat features upgrade SMS text messaging so you can send and receive better quality photos and videos, chat over Wi-Fi or data, know when your message is read, share reactions, and enjoy more dynamic and engaging group chats.”
In order to offer more security in the chat conversations, Google is continually improving security protections to safeguard the privacy and will be rolling out end-to-end encryption. The first and foremost step towards this is with one-on-one RCS conversations between people using Messages. Furthermore, end-to-end encryption makes sure that no one can read the content of the messages. This even includes Google and third parties.
Google stated that this will roll out to beta testers starting this month and continue into next year. It was further notified that the eligible conversations will automatically upgrade to be end-to-end encrypted. The end-to-end encryption is available when both the sender and the receiver have Messages installed and chat features on. All that has to be done to access the newest features, simply update your Messages app to the latest version or download the app and turn chat features on.
Meanwhile, Google has also retained the top spot in YouGov’s 2020 Best Brand Rankings in India to become the best health brand among urban Indians. On the other hand, YouTube secured a second spot with 53.3 and WhatsApp came down to third position with a score of 53.1.
“YouGov’s 2020 Best Brand Rankings place Google in the first place yet again. In addition to being the best brand in India, the tech giant dominates the global rankings as well, highlighting the power of a strong brand. India’s top 10 list this year has a dominance of e-commerce brands, showing the rising engagement of urban Indian residents with online shopping amidst the pandemic,” said Deepa Bhatia, General Manager, YouGov India.
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