While billions of texts are sent every year, there are other messaging channels that offer a lot more, like Rich Communication Services (RCS). But what precisely is Rich Communication Services and how does it work?
Well, RCS was built as a replacement for SMS. It makes possible for Apple and Android users to enjoy many of the same features as other rich messaging channels like WhatsApp or Apple iMessage.
You can deem Rich Communication Services as a messaging protocol for Android and Apple users offering rich chat features like images, videos, and other interactive elements. An RCS message makes it possible for users to send and receive high-quality media, create group chats, see typing indicators, and see read receipts.
When it comes to Rich Communication Services chats, live chats can include multimedia web pages, maps, and other images. It is important to take note of the sheer fact that these chats can take place directly in a user’s native mobile inbox.
To effectively understand the existing difference between an RCS message and text messaging, it might be ideal to first understand the differences between MMS and SMS. The key difference is that, while MMS messages allow for multimedia attachments, RCS offers a much more interactive experience.
That leaves many wondering if Rich Communication Services is bound to replace SMS. Probably not! RCS was created to replace SMS as a messaging protocol, but RCS messages require a mobile data connection. No wonder RCS can offer features similar to other OTT messaging platforms like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and others.
But compared to OTT apps, Rich Communication Services doesn’t require users to download an extra app or create a new account. Actually, RCS works within the native messaging app that’s built into different services. Remember, SMS messages are still sent over a mobile network, meaning it can and should be used as a fallback when there is no Wi-Fi or you don’t have a data place.
Be sure to research more into what makes Rich Communication Servicesappealing before you can finally use it to your advantage.