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Apple RCS

What is Apple RCS?  

Rich Communication Services (RCS) is an advanced messaging protocol that improves text messaging between Android and Apple devices. It’s a more interactive and secure way of messaging and incorporates features such as:

  • Multimedia sharing
  • Group chats
  • Read receipts
  • Typing indicators

Apple RCS on our network is operated by our technology partner, Google. Your use of RCS is subject to Google’s privacy policy. Please read our privacy policy for more information on how we and Google collect, share, and use your information.

RCS improves messaging with the following key features:  

  • Multimedia sharing: effortlessly share images, videos, and audio messages 
  • Group chats: have conversations with multiple people at the same time
  • Read receipts: know when your messages have been read 
  • Typing indicators: see when someone is responding 
  • Enhanced security: get better message security with encryption 
  • No character limits: send longer messages without restrictions 

How do I use Apple RCS?  

Apple RCS is automatically enabled on all compatible devices on iOS 18. To turn it on or off:

  1. Open Settings on your device
  2. Scroll down and tap Apps
  3. Go to Messages
  4. Tap RCS Messaging and toggle on or off 

Frequently asked questions

RCS messages are sent over Wi-Fi or using mobile data. If you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network, you won’t have to pay anything to use RCS messaging on your iPhone. Using mobile data? You’ll be charged as per your allowances. 

RCS offers a much richer messaging experience than traditional SMS. Its features, such as multimedia sharing and group chats, offer more functionality than SMS can provide. 

RCS offers: 

  • Higher quality media: send full-resolution images and videos 
  • Emoji reactions: react to messages with emojis 
  • Real-time typing indicators: see when someone is typing 
  • Improved group chats: smooth messaging for both iOS and Android users 

RCS lets you send messages over Wi-Fi or cellular data, making delivery more reliable. Your use of RCS is subject to Google’s privacy policy. Please read our privacy policy for more information on how we and Google collect, share, and use your information

No, RCS messages will still appear in green bubbles. 

Android users will see improved media sharing, better group chat experiences, and the potential for cross-platform messaging support. They’ll still see green bubbles when messaging iPhone users. 

Yes. If you use RCS while roaming, you’ll be charged for the data used. Sending and receiving RCS messages counts as data usage, the same as other messaging services. If your plan was activated after 1 October 2021, a daily roaming charge will apply for any data used.

Important: RCS is enabled by default on iPhones. So, to avoid these roaming charges, you should turn off data roaming or turn off RCS before travelling.  

  • iPhone XR, XS and XS Max 
  • iPhone SE 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen
  • iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max 
  • iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max 
  • iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max 
  • iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max 
  • iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max 
  • iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max 

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