iOS 27 Messages update improves texting with Android users

Apple is rolling out iOS 27 with two long-promised improvements to messaging between iPhones and Android devices. Messages now supports true inline replies and direct emoji reactions (Tapbacks) in cross-platform RCS chats, removing the awkward text strings like “Liked an image” and making group conversations less chaotic. The gap with Apple’s iMessage isn’t fully closed, but Android and iPhone users should see a much smoother experience.

• Inline replies now work in RCS chats with Android users
• Emoji Tapbacks display directly on messages for everyone
• No more clunky text reactions like 'Liked an image'
• Gap with iMessage is smaller but not gone
• Cross-device syncing for iPad still has issues