Update: Video added demonstrating the feature.
Windows 10 Mobile users on Vodafone in the UK can reportedly now see typing indicators on their SMS messages. Similar to WhatsApp and other messaging services like Apple's iMessage the feature lets users have a more real-time awareness of the chat partner's status.
The feature was first spotted by GMRtec. Their screenshot also shows a "Read" indicator to show the reception of the message has checked out the post, in a way similar to apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.
Interestingly, the 'Send on' option says "SMS Chat" instead of the default "SMS text". That change from 'chat' to 'text' indicates the new feature is enabled and lets the user know of the option.
Microsoft announced support for the feature some time ago and even their support page comments about the feature:
"If your mobile operator offers a chat service, your messages to certain contacts may be sent using that service, and you'll see chat instead of text in your Messaging app. If you expect to see chat but don't, try going to Messaging settings to turn it on."
As mentioned above, this is a carrier-dependant feature.
In the US, both T-Mobile and AT&T have announced general support for the features described above and they fall under the category of "Advanced Messaging". Similar to Wi-Fi Calling the feature is specific to certain phones and requires carrier-approved firmware to enable the feature. From AT&T's support page:
"Advanced Messaging is the AT&T next generation messaging service that allows you to send high-resolution photos and larger video files, up to 10MB per attachment. You can also see when your messages have been delivered, when they are read, and even when others are typing a response. There is no app to download, no separate account to configure, and no password to enter."
Currently, only Samsung Android phones have the feature enabled on T-Mobile, and there is no indication yet if the Lumia 950 on AT&T will gain this feature. It is safe to assume that AT&T would need to have Advanced Messaging added to the Microsoft firmware, and this could be something holding up the firmware update on the Lumia 950. However, at this time, there is no confirmation if that is the case.
While it is perhaps unsurprising that Windows 10 Mobile supports Advanced Messaging it is unfortunate that users will still be at the mercy of carriers to enable the feature. For now, many of us will have to wait for Advanced Messaging to roll out to our respective countries and carriers. As of now, only Vodafone in the UK is known to have enabled this for Windows 10 Mobile devices.
Anyone else seeing the feature enabled on their phones? Let us know in comments including phone, carrier, and region!
Source: GMRtec; Thanks, Jragar, for the tip and video
