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RCS Universal Profile v3.1 update improves audio quality

The GSMA announces a codec update to enhance voice messaging clarity.

July 25, 2025 at 06:10 PM

RCS v3.1 update makes your voice messages cleaner with new codec support

The GSMA releases a new update to improve voice messaging with enhanced codec support.

RCS Universal Profile v3.1 update enhances audio clarity

The GSMA has announced the Universal Profile v3.1 update for Rich Communication Services (RCS), enhancing audio messaging by introducing the xHE-AAC audio codec. This new codec aims to improve the clarity and fidelity of voice messages, allowing users to experience clearer audio during conversations. The update, shared by Tom van Pelt on the GSMA blog, focuses on making RCS services more reliable even in areas with challenging network coverage. This follows the previous v3.0 update in March that added end-to-end encryption to enhance user security in messaging applications. The inclusion of the xHE-AAC codec allows efficient compression, thus ensuring better quality for both speech and non-speech recordings.

Key Takeaways

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RCS v3.1 introduces the xHE-AAC codec for clearer voice messages.

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The update aims to improve messaging reliability in poor coverage areas.

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End-to-end encryption was a major feature added in v3.0.

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Enhanced audio quality offers a more natural playback experience.

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The update is a result of collaboration among global industry stakeholders.

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GSMA emphasizes a focus on media quality and global scalability.

"This update will make all of your voice messages sent and received sound clearer and crisper."

Tom van Pelt highlighting the key benefit of the v3.1 update.

"The first large-scale messaging service to support interoperable E2EE between client implementations from different providers."

Van Pelt describes the significance of encryption in the previous update.

"New mechanisms for connecting RCS clients to operator services will enhance overall reliability."

Discussion on how the latest update aims to address network challenges.

The rollout of v3.1 reveals the GSMA's commitment to evolving RCS as a competitive messaging platform. The enhancements not only improve user experience with clearer audio but also align RCS more closely with expectations for modern messaging apps, emphasizing reliability in diverse network conditions. This focus on service flexibility and media quality suggests that the GSMA seeks to position RCS as a robust alternative to traditional SMS and other messaging services, especially as competition intensifies with platforms like Apple and WhatsApp increasing their features.

Highlights

Clearer voice messages are now a reality with RCS v3.1.
A collaborative effort leads to better audio experiences in messaging.
RCS is set to redefine user expectations in mobile communication.
Enhanced audio clarity is just the beginning for RCS.

Concerns over RCS reliability and user expectations

The emphasis on improving RCS services in challenging network conditions raises questions about current reliability and user experience satisfaction. Users may be critical if the promised enhancements do not meet their expectations, especially in regions with weak coverage.

As RCS continues to evolve, its competitive edge may increasingly depend on delivering top-notch user experiences.

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rcs audio communication gsma updates technology communication

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