RCS Messaging - Smarter Way to Connect with Customers

Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging is the next big leap in mobile communication, designed to replace traditional SMS and offer a more interactive, engaging experience.

Switch to RCS

What is RCS Messaging & Chat?

RCS stands for Rich Communication Services, and its main goal is to enhance the basic SMS experience. Unlike SMS, which can only handle 160 characters, RCS allows you to send images, videos, files, and interactive buttons.
RCS enables high-resolution media sharing, typing indicators, read receipts, and even branded business messaging, making conversations smoother and more dynamic.

In simple terms, RCS is like SMS but smarter and richer — turning your default messaging app into a modern chat platform.
Illustration of RCS messaging revolution

How RCS Differs from SMS and Texting

RCS texting vs SMS

Card image

SMS

  • Plain text only
  • limited character count
  • no media sharing without MMS
Versus Image
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RCS

  • Rich media support (images, videos)
  • Read receipts & typing indicators
  • Interactive buttons

RCS also uses the internet (Wi-Fi or mobile data), while SMS uses your carrier’s cellular network. This means better reliability and faster delivery for RCS chats.

RCS in Google Messages (Setup & Features)

Google RCS messaging explained

Google has played a huge role in making RCS available globally through its Google Messages app. To enable RCS:

Step 1

Open Google Messages

Step 2

Go to Settings → Chat features

Step 3

Turn on Enable “Chat features”

Once activated, you’ll see features like “Typing…” indicators, message reactions, and higher-quality media sharing right in your default texting app.

Business Messaging

RCS Business Messaging for Companies

Businesses are adopting RCS to improve customer engagement. With RCS business messaging, companies can send interactive promotions, appointment reminders, and transactional updates with buttons for actions like “Book Now” or “Track Order.”

This makes RCS a powerful tool for e-commerce, banking, healthcare, and service-based businesses to drive better response rates compared to traditional SMS.

RCS Messaging Service Provider

Many telecom operators and specialized tech companies provide RCS messaging services. Mindsmiratus Technologies is the best RCS service provider in India and focuses on offering robust APIs, scalability, and support for branded experiences.

RCS message provider vs RCS service provider

RCS Message Provider

Focuses on sending and delivering RCS messages.

RCS Service Provider

Offers a complete platform with analytics, branding, automation, and campaign management.

Mindsmiratus Technologies

One of the top RCS providers in India with robust APIs & branded experiences.

When choosing a provider, look for features like global reach, delivery rate, and compliance with GSMA standards.

RCS Messaging Cost and Pricing Factors

Pricing for RCS messaging depends on:

Volume of messages sent

Type of content (media vs plain text)

Region and operator agreements

Generally, RCS costs slightly more than SMS, but its higher engagement rates often justify the price for businesses.

Features of RCS Messaging

Rich Media
Rich Media

Send images, videos, and interactive buttons directly in chat.

Security
Security

Bank-grade encryption with verified business sender IDs.

Real-Time
Real-Time

Know when your messages are delivered and read instantly.

Scalability
Scalability

Easily reach millions of users with minimal setup.

Where Can You Use RCS?

Retail

Showcase products and promotions

Airlines

Boarding passes & flight updates

Banking

Secure alerts & transactions

Events

Instant ticket confirmations

RCS Messaging

Verified Business Messaging

Rich Media Support

Real Time Engagement Insights

Better Analytics

Two Way Conversation

FAQ – RCS Messaging

Ans: RCS stands for Rich Communication Services and is designed to enhance traditional SMS with chat-like features.

Ans: Yes, RCS offers a richer experience with media sharing, read receipts, and interactive elements.

Ans: For users, RCS messages usually cost the same as SMS or are free when using Wi-Fi. Businesses pay per message or campaign.

Ans: Some of the leading RCS service providers include telecom operators, Google partners, and dedicated CPaaS companies like Twilio, Infobip, and Route Mobile.

Ans: Install Google Messages, open settings, and enable Chat features. Your device will verify your number, and RCS will be ready to use.