Google is preparing an update to the Messages app for WearOS-based smartwatches that will allow sending RCS messages without the need to connect to a smartphone. It is reported by Android Authority.
Currently, smartwatches running WearOS simply mirror notifications from a smartphone, which means they can send and receive RCS messages. But as soon as the connection with the smartphone is disconnected, this function will stop working.
As Android Authority found in the Messages beta code, this feature will soon work on smartwatches without the need for a connection to a smartphone.
Users will only be able to use the watch with Wi-Fi or LTE to send and receive messages to others.
So far, the feature has only been mentioned in the Messages beta code. The company has not officially commented on the update, but we may hear more about it soon.
As a reminder, RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a data transfer protocol that allows users to send messages over the Internet. With RCS, you can send files or photos in high quality and see when a message has been read, unlike regular SMS.