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Rich Communication Services (RCS)

What is RCS?  

Rich Communication Services (RCS) is an advanced messaging protocol.

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
  • No character limits: send longer messages without restrictions 

How do I use RCS?  

RCS is automatically enabled on all compatible devices on iOS 18.2 onwards. 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’s 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.

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.  

Please visit our privacy portal for more information on how we and our technology partner collect, share, and use your information.

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