Rich Communication Service (RCS) messaging offers enhanced features like read and delivery receipts, typing indicators, larger file transfers, and larger group chats. RCS is available on Apple devices using the Messages app with Android devices using the Google Messages app.
- Send larger files: Send larger file attachments than with MMS, like higher-definition pictures and longer or higher-resolution videos.
- Larger group chats: Up to 100 participants in a group chat, an increase from previous SMS/MMS messaging limit of 20 participants.
- Create flexible group chats: Users can be added to, and easily leave an existing message thread.
- Get delivery and read receipts: See when your messages are delivered and when they are read.
Have an Android phone? Get info about RCS for your phone.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, if you’re in our domestic coverage area and have:
- An Apple® iPhone® running iOS 18 or later
- RCS Messaging enabled (it’s enabled by default)
You can use RCS outside our network coverage area using Wi-Fi data.
On iPhones using iOS 18 or later, RCS messaging is enabled by default. To use it, simply open the Message app on your iPhone and begin messaging another person with an RCS-capable smartphone using Google Messages and wireless (or wi-fi) data service.
If you want to disable RCS messaging:
- Go to Settings, then scroll to Apps and select Messages.
- Scroll to RCS Messaging, where you can turn it ON or OFF.
Good to know: RCS features (like read receipts) only appear for you and others in your conversation, if you’re both eligible, with RCS Messaging turned on and have a sufficient data connection.
In the text input field, if it says:
- “iMessage”, then the message is composed as an iMessage.
- “Text Message - RCS”, then the message is composed as an RCS message.
- “Text Message - SMS”, then the message is composed as an SMS or MMS message.
Want more help? Check out our device tutorials.
