Google calls green vs blue text bubble debate ‘silly and tired’

Text messages

Google has declared the long-running debate over green and blue text bubbles irrelevant, following Apple’s adoption of RCS with iOS 18. The comments came during a Pixel 10 showcase featuring Google executives Brian Lofton and Ben Fallon.

When Fallon admitted he did not know what RCS was, Lofton explained that Rich Communication Services creates a unified standard for messaging. “Android has been using RCS for many years, but Apple recently adopted it as well,” he said. The upgrade means iPhone and Android users can now share high-quality photos and videos, use emoji reactions, and enjoy full-featured group chats.

Asked if this marked the end of the green versus blue bubble debate, Lofton responded: “Yes. Personally, the green/blue bubble battle is silly and it’s tired, and at Google we’re done with that conversation. Inside our company, we believe technology is at its best when it brings people together, no matter what phone brand they carry. And we hope that phone in your hands is a Pixel.”

The remarks referenced Apple’s long-awaited move to adopt RCS last year after years of pressure from rivals. Google and Samsung previously ran campaigns mocking Apple’s refusal to support the standard, often highlighting the colour of text bubbles. While iMessages remain blue and RCS messages appear green on Apple devices, both now share the same core features.