What is RCS messaging? The new Android texting service explained
While there have been many attempts on Google's part to launch one, there is one thing that Android has always lacked: a true messaging competitor to Apple's iMessage. That could all be set to change as Google embarks on a large-scale rollout of the RCS (rich communication services) messaging platform, adding a raft of new features to messaging on Android.
But what exactly is RCS, what features does it have and which devices is it be available on? Read on to find out the answers to all these questions and more.
What is RCS messaging?
Rich communication services is a protocol between both mobile operators and phones. The overall aim of RCS is for it to eventually replace SMS and MMS messaging, the formats we're all familiar with as they have been around for years.
RCS messaging is very much like WhatsApp, where live chat can take place, including multi-media support, with everything handled via the data network.
It's seen as a rival to Apple's iMessage service, although there are some subtle differences between how these services operate.
What's the current status of RCS messaging?
For a number of years, RCS has been widely supported by mobile phone networks, software and devices. It's supported by the stock Google Messages app available on Android
What does RCS messaging do?
The biggest advantage RCS Messaging has over SMS - and the reason it will be implemented in the first place - is that it will enable users to send rich, verified messages. This means messages will be able to carry more information, so users can send things like photos, videos and audio messages to one another.
<iframe frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" src="They will be able to carry out video calls with one another from directly within the messaging app, rather than having to rely on third-party software. Group messages are possible, and little things such as read receipts and indicators to show other users are typing a message will be included as well. RCS messages will also do away with the 160 character limit currently found in SMS messages.
Businesses will be able to use RCS Messaging to send things like boarding passes for airlines, package delivery notifications and credit card fraud alerts.
Are RCS messages secure?
RCS messages rely on data in order to be sent between users, and so messages are sent with client-to-server encryption. The protocol should also prevent spam messages from reaching your device, as for a company to be able to send a message via RCS, they have to go through a brand verification process.
Who is supporting RCS Messaging?
Many companies, including operators, manufacturers and software providers have pledged their support for RCS Messaging, but by far and away the biggest supporter is Google.
The technology giant has been trying to increase the adoption of RCS messaging in recent years, as it wants to implement it in all Android phones. Google is rolling out the new features afforded by RCS as "chat" and it is part the existing Android Messages app - alongside SMS and MMS.
There are currently 60 supporters of RCS Messaging, broken down into 47 mobile operators, 11 OEMs and 2 OS providers.
Mobile operators
- Advanced Info Service
- América Móvil
- AT&T Mobility
- Axiata
- Beeline
- Bell Mobility
- Bharti Airtel
- China Mobile
- China Telecom
- China Unicom
- Claro Americas#Brazil
- Claro Colombia
- Deutsche Telekom
- Etisalat
- Globe telecom
- Indosat Oooredoo
- Jio
- KPN
- M1 Limited
- MegaFon
- Millicom
- MTN Group
- MTS
- Optus
- Orange S.A.
- Telecom Argentina
- Telecom Argentina#Personal
- Play
- Rogers Communications
- Singtel
- Smart Communications
- Sprint Corporation
- StarHub
- Telcel
- Tele2
- Telefónica
- Telenor
- Telia Copany
- Telkomsel
- Telstra
- Telus
- TIM
- T-Mobile US
- Turkcell
- Verizon Communications
- Veon
- Vodafone
OEMs
- Alcatel
- Asus
- General Mobile
- Huawei
- HTC
- Intex Technologies
- Lava International
- LG Electronics
- Motorola
- Samsung
- ZTE
OS providers
- Microsoft
How can I see if I have RCS support on my phone?
Firstly, you should use the Messages app and make sure it's the default messaging app (while other apps will support it, Google's approach means you need to use its own app).
- Open the app and hit the menu in the top right-hand corner.
- Select settings
- Select Chat features
- Chat features will tell you if you have support or not, and if it's enabled
RCS is something that you have to opt into and when it becomes available via Google or your provider, you will receive a notification asking you to opt in. You'll have to agree to Google's terms and conditions.
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