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MESSAGING TYPES

What is RCS?

RCS Rich Communication Services - The next-generation messaging protocol with rich media features.

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next-generation messaging protocol designed to replace SMS, offering enhanced features similar to messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp.

RCS Features

  • Rich media: High-res images, videos, files
  • Read receipts: See when messages are read
  • Typing indicators: Know when someone is responding
  • Group chats: Advanced group messaging
  • Branding: Verified sender with logo
  • Interactive elements: Buttons, carousels, quick replies

    • RCS Availability

    Android: Widely supported via Google Messages iOS: Apple announced RCS support in iOS 18 (2024) Carriers: Varies by region and carrier

    RCS vs SMS/MMS

    | Feature | SMS | MMS | RCS |
    |---------|-----|-----|-----|
    | Characters | 160 | 1,600 | Unlimited |
    | Media | No | Yes | Rich media |
    | Read receipts | No | No | Yes |
    | Typing indicator | No | No | Yes |
    | Branding | No | No | Yes |
    | Fallback | N/A | SMS | SMS |

    Business Benefits

  • Brand verification: Official sender badges
  • Higher engagement: Interactive elements
  • Rich analytics: Delivery and read metrics
  • App-like experience: Without app download

    • Current State

    RCS adoption is growing but SMS remains the universal standard. Most RCS systems fall back to SMS for compatibility.

    RELATED TERMS

    SMS

    Short Message Service - Standard text messaging limited to 160 characters per message segment.

    MMS

    Multimedia Messaging Service - Text messages that include images, videos, GIFs, or audio.

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