Google’s Messages app has reportedly added Ultra HDR support to its Rich Communication Services (RCS) chats. This feature allows users to share high-quality images in RCS messages. Ultra HDR image format is available for devices running Android 14. Google’s new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro handsets are among the first to receive this new feature. The Google Messages app already offers features like typing display, photo and video sharing, and more.
As discovered by TheSpAndroid, Google Messages supports Ultra HDR images in RCS chats. This allows users to exchange Ultra HDR images in RCS chat, enhancing the messaging experience. Ultra HDR is a new image format available in Android 14. Currently, Google’s Pixel 8 lineup is the only device that supports Ultra HDR.
According to the published APK teardown of the app, the ‘bugle.support_ultra_hdr’ code suggests support for Ultra HDR images in the Google message. Google reportedly added support for Ultra HDR images in September, shortly before the launch of the Pixel 8 series.
The Ultra HDR image format was introduced by Google with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. This is a variation of the standard JPEG format with HDR metadata, providing a better image experience with detailed highlights and shadows. Ultra HDR images can be viewed on HDR and non-HDR displays.
Google Messages already offers several messaging features, including RCS Chat, including read receipts, typing indicators, inline replies, group chats, and video calls.
Apple, Google’s main rival, plans to introduce the RCS protocol in its iPhone models in 2024. The new RCS standard works with iMessage. It’s coming to iPhone models in a software update next year that will add a variety of iMessage-style features to messaging between iPhone and Android devices.
At Google I/O 2023, the search giant reiterated its interest in AI with the launch of its first foldable phone and Pixel-branded tablet. This year, the company plans to power its apps, services, and Android operating system with AI technology. We discuss this in more detail on the Gadgets 360 podcast, Orbital. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and wherever you get your podcasts.
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