RCS messaging

What is RCS?

You may already be familiar with these common types of text message we send out.

Short Message Service (SMS) Standard text messaging service using a mobile network.
Multimedia Message Service (MMS) A messaging service which allows you to send images, videos and files using a mobile network.

You may also notice that some texts we send you look a little different. They're known as RCS messages.

Rich Communication Services (RCS)

RCS is an upgraded way to send messages. It works over mobile data and WiFi and gives you more features than standard text messages, like:

Sharing files and higher quality photos
Seeing when someone is typing a message
Receiving read receipts for messages
Joining group chats

You can also receive useful updates from businesses, like:

event tickets
boarding passes
appointment reminders

If you have limited data allowances, you may want to turn it off.

What's different with RCS?

When you use RCS, you may notice:

messages show as chat instead of SMS
you can see when someone is typing

How it works

RCS only works when:

both you and the person you're messaging have RCS switched on
you're using a compatible device and messaging app
you have a mobile data or WiFi connection
If these aren’t on or working, your message will automatically send as an SMS or MMS instead.

How to check and turn off RCS messaging

Go into your phone settings.
Select Messages.
Find RCS messaging.
Select to turn it on or off.

Phone settings may vary. If you can't find it, search RCS in your settings. If you do not have iOS 18, you won't be able to use RCS messgaing on an iPhone. For more information visit Apple support.

Does my phone support this service?

Android devices: available on most phones using the Google Messages app
iPhone: available on iOS 18 and above

If you don’t see RCS settings, your device or software may not support it.

For more information, visit Apple Support.