RCS overview
Table of Contents
General information
Rich Communication Services (RCS) is the next generation of mobile messaging. It transforms the simple SMS inbox into a rich, interactive communication channel that combines the reach of SMS with the features people love from modern chat apps.
With RCS, brands can go far beyond plain text by sharing:
- High-quality images and videos
- Downloadable files and documents
- Interactive buttons for quick replies or actions
- Dynamic layouts such as cards and carousels
Why RCS is Different
Unlike MMS, which sends content only through the cellular network, RCS uses internet connectivity (mobile data or Wi-Fi). This allows:
- Faster, more reliable delivery
- Larger file sizes for visuals and media
- Engaging, two-way conversations instead of one-way blasts
Unlike OTT apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger, RCS doesn’t require users to install anything. It’s built directly into the native messaging app on Android devices — offering scale, convenience, and trust.
What about Optins?
For Marketing use cases, RCS can legally use the SMS optins your brand has already collected!
In short:
RCS brings together the best of SMS, MMS, and chat apps, giving brands a powerful way to engage customers with richer, smarter, and more interactive conversations.
Message types
Business initiated conversations
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
text |
Standard text message. |
image |
Image file message (e.g., JPEG, PNG). |
video |
Video file message (e.g., MP4). |
file |
Generic file attachment. |
custom |
Advanced RCS payloads such as suggested replies, suggested actions, rich cards, and carousels. See [RCS Custom Messages Guide]. |
User initiated conversations
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
text |
Standard text message received from the user. |
image |
Image file uploaded by the user. |
video |
Video file uploaded by the user. |
audio |
Audio file or voice recording. |
file |
Generic file uploaded by the user. |
vcard |
Contact card shared by the user. |
location |
User’s shared location data. |
reply |
Suggested reply selected by the user. |
button |
Suggested action button selected by the user. |