What Is RCS Chat?
Google’s Android users now have access to a new messaging system similar to Apple’s iMessage.
As of late last week, Rich Communication Services (RCS) is available to all U.S. Android users.
RCS is a more advanced messaging platform compared to the traditional SMS.
With RCS, Android users can now enjoy features that iMessage users have had for a while.
These include read receipts, which show when a message has been seen, the ability to send high-resolution images, and typing indicators that show when the other person is typing.
Overall, RCS is a big step up from SMS. If you’re new to RCS, you probably have many questions.
Here’s what you need to know about RCS and its features:
What is RCS?
RCS is the new messaging system for Android devices. It’s an alternative to SMS and offers features similar to those found in iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger.
With RCS, you can send more engaging and richer text messages compared to SMS.
How does RCS compare to SMS?
RCS is a significant upgrade from SMS. While SMS allows you to send basic text messages and small, often pixelated images, RCS enhances the experience.
With RCS, you can send GIFs, high-resolution photos, and videos. Unlike SMS’s 160-character limit, RCS has no character limit and supports sending large files, such as PDFs and Word documents.
RCS also offers features SMS did not, like read receipts to show when your messages are seen, and typing bubbles that indicate when someone is typing a response.
Group chatting is supported on RCS, allowing you to name your chat groups. You can send messages over both Wi-Fi and cellular connections.
RCS could also benefit businesses. Companies can now send messages with delivery updates and order statuses that include maps or images, rather than just plain text.
This makes interactions between businesses and consumers more engaging and visually informative.
FAQS
Which devices work with RCS?
RCS is compatible with all U.S. carrier networks and works on all Android devices. You can use it through the Android Messages app or Samsung’s messaging app on Galaxy phones.
Does RCS work outside the U.S.?
Not at the moment. There’s no current information from Google or international carriers about when RCS will be available outside the U.S., but it is expected to expand eventually.
Does Apple support RCS?
Apple does not support RCS at this time. Though you can still send SMS messages to Apple users, RCS features are not available on iPhones. There have been reports suggesting that Apple might consider supporting RCS in the future, but for now, its benefits are limited to communications between Android users.
How secure is RCS?
RCS lacks end-to-end encryption, unlike iMessage or WhatsApp. This means that messages sent via RCS could be intercepted and seen by others.
End-to-end encryption is used by both Apple’s iMessage and WhatsApp, meaning only the people in the chat can read the messages. This level of security has been a key issue in debates between Apple and law enforcement agencies, who have sought access to iMessage communications for investigations.
Is RCS free? How can I get it?
RCS is available for free to all Android users. You don’t need to download a separate app. To start using RCS, update your phone’s carrier services app to refresh its connection to the network, and make sure your messaging app is updated.
Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”