RCS messaging aims to be the next step up from SMS since its invention many years ago, but it’s only after Apple launched iOS 18 that we can finally utilize it to the fullest between Apple and Android devices. Our handy guide is here to explain what exactly RCS messaging is and how to enable it on your device.
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Here’s everything in our RCS messaging guide:
What is RCS messaging?
Simply put, Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging is an upgraded form of SMS chat, that allows for a ‘richer’ experience. Its primary features include things like read receipts, visible chat bubbles when someone is typing, message reactions, and the ability to send high-quality photos and videos to your friends.
If you use iMessage between iOS devices or you’ve used WhatsApp, then you’ve already experienced RCS messaging. Until recently, Apple’s Messages app only supported RCS messaging between iOS users via iMessage, but now there is an option to turn it on for all messages as part of iOS 18, changing the way you communicate with your Android-using friends.
How to turn on RCS messaging
To upgrade your messaging experience with RCS, you first need to turn the feature on.
To turn on RCS messaging on Android:
- Open Google Messages on your device
- Tap on your profile picture
- Navigate to Messages settings
- Tap RCS chats
- Switch the option on
To turn on RCS messaging on iOS:
- First, check that your phone provider supports RCS by doing the following:
- Open settings
- Tap general > about > carrier
- If your provider supports RCS, the options will read Voice, SMS, and RCS
- Open settings
- Tap apps, then messages
- Turn on the RCS messaging toggle
That’s everything you need to know about RCS messaging. While you’re here, make sure to check out our list of the best mobile games on the market right now. We’ve also got tons of freebies for your favorite games like Coin Master free spins, free Monopoly Go dice, and Dice Dreams free rolls.