Texting emergency services can sometimes be more effective than calling, and Google has been working on expanding support for emergency texts via RCS—the modern upgrade to SMS. While Google previously promised this feature would arrive in 2025, recent findings suggest the rollout is getting closer.
A report from Android Authority has uncovered hidden code in the latest Google Messages update, referencing emergency RCS messaging and its ability to share information with emergency responders. Although the feature is not yet live, Google engineers appear to be laying the groundwork for its introduction, at least for the US 911 service.
Currently, emergency services can be contacted via SMS in some areas, but support remains inconsistent. In the US, only 53% of emergency call centers currently accept SMS-based emergency texts. By integrating RCS messaging, Google aims to expand accessibility while also introducing new safety features such as photo and video sharing, read receipts, and more reliable message delivery.
Last year, Google announced a partnership with RapidSOS to upgrade emergency call center technology in the US. That initiative began in late 2024, indicating that emergency RCS messaging could go live sometime in 2025.
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Initially, Google Messages will be the first app to support emergency RCS texting, but the feature is expected to expand to other messaging apps and potentially more countries over time. iPhones, which recently gained RCS support, are also likely to receive this feature.
Apple already allows SMS-based emergency texting, but its availability depends on location. Additionally, iPhone 14 and later models support emergency messaging via satellite, enabling users to contact emergency services even when Wi-Fi and cellular networks are unavailable.
Google’s RCS-based emergency messaging could significantly enhance how people reach emergency responders, especially in situations where calling isn’t an option. With expanded multimedia sharing and more reliable communication, this upgrade represents a major step forward in critical safety communications. As development progresses, more details on launch timelines and availability are expected in the coming months.