Phone and text messages: Apple opens up core iPhone functions in the EU
RCS/SMS messages and telephony have always only been available in Apple's Phone and Messages app. That will change soon.
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Apple is preparing another fundamental opening of the iPhone with iOS 26: In the future, users in the EU will be able to use non-Apple apps to send text messages (RCS, SMS, MMS) and make traditional phone calls for the first time. This was previously not possible. Since the introduction of the iPhone 18 years ago, the basic communication channels for cell phones have been reserved for the pre-installed Apple apps "Messages" and "Phone".
Apple lets apps use RCS and telephony
With the new TelephonyMessagingKit framework, the iPhone manufacturer has created the basis for third-party apps to be able to "send and receive standard-based messages via mobile networks". Specifically, the communication standards Rich Communication Services (RCS), Short Message Service (SMS) and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) are supported. This is according to the developer documentation for the iOS 26 beta published by Apple as part of WWDC 2025.
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At the same time, there is a new authorization for a "Default Dialer App", which can ultimately replace Apple's phone app. A "default dialer app" is primarily used as a dialing program to make calls via VoIP or the mobile connection. Such an app can establish the connection directly without the user having to confirm this again –, as is usually the case when a phone number tapped in an app is passed on to the phone app. The standard app for calls also has access to the call list with past outgoing and incoming calls.
TelephonyMessagingKit is only designed for iPhone users in the EU, Apple notes. Default dialer apps can even only be tested by developers within EU member states.
Digital Markets Act sends its regards
Apple appears to be making the change in response to the Digital Markets Act, although this step is not noted in the company's latest compliance plan. Apple has already integrated extended standard app settings so that users can set up other standard apps for text messages and calls for the first time, but mobile services such as RCS were excluded. All Apple apps can now also be deleted from the operating system, with the exception of Phone and Settings.
RCS has only been supported since iOS 18, with support for end-to-end encryption to follow soon. iMessage was able to save Apple from being forced to open up in the EU because the competition authorities did not consider the service to be important enough for communication between companies and end customers.
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