RCS (Rich Communication Services) Messaging is the next generation of mobile messaging that enhances traditional SMS with features like images, videos, carousels, read receipts, typing indicators, and interactive buttons. It works over Wi-Fi or mobile data instead of traditional cellular networks.

Google supports RCS through the Google Messages app, which is pre-installed on most Android devices. To use RCS, ensure your device is RCS-compatible, set Google Messages as your default app, and enable Chat Features in its settings. This turns on RCS capabilities for rich, branded conversations

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next evolution of SMS and offers several advanced features:

• Rich Media:     RCS supports images, videos, carousels, and file sharing, while SMS is limited to plain text (up to 160 characters).
• Interactivity:     RCS enables features like read receipts, typing indicators, and quick reply buttons for more engaging conversations.
• Delivery Channel:     SMS uses the traditional mobile network (GSM), whereas RCS works over the internet  (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
• Use Case:     RCS is ideal for branded, interactive business messaging, while SMS  is typically used for basic notifications or one-way alerts.

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As of now, RCS messaging is not supported on iPhones. iPhone users rely on iMessage for Apple-to-Apple communication and SMS/MMS for messages to non-Apple devices. However, Apple has confirmed plans to adopt the RCS by 2025, which will enhance messaging between iPhones and Android devices with features like read receipts, typing indicators, and media sharing. RCS functionality is expected to be integrated soon on iOS.

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RCS messaging on Android works through supported messaging apps—primarily Google Messages. It enables users to send multimedia content such as images, videos, carousels, quick reply buttons, and live status indicators like read receipts and typing indicators. To use RCS, you must have:

·        A compatible Android device

·        The Google Messages app set as your default

·        Chat Features enabled in settings

·        Carrier support for RCS

Once activated, RCS messages are sent over mobile data or Wi-Fi, not traditional SMS networks.

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RCS supports a wide range of rich media formats, including images, videos, GIFs, audio files, carousels,and interactive buttons. It also enables location sharing, calendar event prompts, and in some regions, even payment and QR code integration. These features allow businesses to deliver highly engaging, app-like conversations directly within the messaging app

With RCS, businesses can:

• Send branded messages with logos and verified sender IDs.

• Engage customers with images, videos, and interactive buttons.

• Automate customer support with chatbots.

• Run rich promotional campaigns with personalized offers.

• Provide real-time order updates and appointment reminders.

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RCS Messaging is more secure than SMS, thanks to features like verified sender IDs, which help protect users from spam and phishing attacks. Messages are encrypted in transit, meaning they are protected while being delivered—but RCS business messages are not end-to-end encrypted. For added security, brands must use verified RBM (Rich Business Messaging) partners approved by Google.

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SMS: Text-only messages with a 160-character limit.

MMS: Supports media like images and videos but lacks interactive elements.

RCS: Supports branding, rich media, interactive buttons, read receipts, and two-way communication, making it a more advanced messaging solution.

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RCS (Rich Communication Services) supports a wide range of features that enhance traditional messaging, including:

·        High-resolution media sharing (images, videos, PDFs, audio)

·        Read receipts and typing indicators

·        Interactive buttons and quick replies

·        Carousels for product showcases or menus

·        Group messaging with rich media support

·        Location sharing and calendar integration

·        Verified sender ID with business branding

·        Fallback to SMS/MMS if RCS is unavailable

·        Wi-Fi and mobile data delivery for better reliability

These features make RCS ideal for business messaging, offering an app-like experience directly inside the native messaging app on Android devices.

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Yes, RCS Messaging supports rich two-way communication, allowing businesses to have interactive, real-time conversations with customers. Brands can integrate quick reply buttons, rich cards, and even AI-powered chatbots to streamline use cases like customer support, order tracking, appointment booking, and feedback collection—directly within the messaging app.

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Absolutely! RCS Messaging can be automated using chatbots, APIs, and CRM integrations. Businesses can set up automated responses for FAQs, order updates, appointment reminders, and personalized promotions.

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Yes, RCS Messaging is a premium service, and rcs pricing varies depending on the mobile carrier, region, and message volume. As GreenAds Global is a Google official RBM partner, we  offers competitive, DLT-compliant pricing for India

1. Basic Messages Price: INR 0.88 + GST per message

Details: Text-only messages up to 160 characters, including delivery and read receipts

2. Rich Card Messages Price: INR 0.18 + GST per message

Details: Messages containing rich media elements such as images, videos, or PDFs.

3. Rich Card Conversations Price: INR 0.20 + GST per conversation

Details: Initiated when a customer responds within 24 hours to a business message, allowing for interactive two-way communication.

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The RCS Business Messaging API enables businesses to integrate RCS capabilities into their existing systems—such as CRMs, marketing platforms, and customer support tools. With GreenAds Global’s RCS API, businesses can send rich media messages, automate two-way conversations, trigger transactional alerts, and deliver personalized experiences directly through the RCS channel. The API works by connecting your backend to Google’s RBM platform via a verified provider like GreenAds Global.

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