iPhone and Android users may soon be able to make video calls across platforms, thanks to a new standard developed by the GSM Association. This standard, known as RCS Universal Profile 4.0, is designed to enable seamless communication between different devices and networks. The feature, called Messaging-Initiated Video Calls (MIVC), will allow users to turn 1-to-1 or group chats into video calls, and even let group members join an ongoing video call that they missed initially.
The GSMA says that MIVC will ensure the continuity of conversations by synchronizing video call logs within the chat timeline. This means that users will be able to pick up where they left off, even if they joined a video call late. However, it's unclear when or if Apple and Google will support this feature, which is necessary for it to work across different platforms.
RCS Universal Profile 4.0 also includes other features such as text formatting, which allows users to add styles like bold, italics, and strikethrough to their messages. Additionally, users will be able to share higher quality audio, video, and images.
The GSMA's new standard could be a game-changer for messaging apps, enabling seamless video calls across platforms. This could be a significant development for companies like Andela, which relies on seamless communication for its remote work setup.
