What is RCS – and why is it such a big deal?
The evolution of smartphones has been rapid, but SMS – invented over 30 years ago – hasn’t kept up. Today, we don’t just send text; we send rich content like images, videos, emojis, and more. SMS needed an upgrade.
That’s where RCS comes in. Developed from 2007 and technically ready by 2018, RCS is the modern replacement for the traditional text message. With support for high-quality media, typing indicators, read receipts, emojis, interactive buttons and more – all directly inside your messaging app – RCS offers a chat experience similar to apps like WhatsApp and iMessage. The difference? There’s nothing extra to download – and it’s much more secure. Businesses can now send messages from verified senders with company branding, creating a more trustworthy and seamless customer experience.
Got a newer Android phone? You likely already have RCS
If you have an Android phone from 2023 or later, RCS is probably already enabled by default. That means you don’t need to do anything – it’s already built into your default messaging app (Google Messages).
Pro tip:You can check by opening the Messages app, then going to:
Settings > Chat features > Status: Connected
Using an older Android phone? Follow this guide
If your phone is a few years old, RCS may not be enabled – or you may need to install the right app. That’s where our video guide and the five simple steps below come in.
⚠️ Note: This guide is mainly for users with older Android phones. On newer models, RCS is already activated.
How to enable RCS on older Android phones
Step 1: Download Google Messages
To enable RCS on your Android, you first need to download the Messages app from Google Play.
Step 2: Set Messages as your default app
Settings > Apps > Default apps > SMS app > Select “Messages”
(Some phones may prompt you to set Messages as default when you open the app for the first time.)
Step 3: Enable chat features (RCS)
Open the Messages app and tap the three dots in the top right corner.
Go to:
Settings > Chat features > Enable chat features
Wait for the status to show “Connected” – then you’re ready.
Step 4: Make sure you’re connected
RCS requires internet access. Ensure you have Wi-Fi or mobile data enabled when sending messages.
Step 5: Start messaging smarter
You’re all set to send rich messages with images, videos, buttons, and more – directly from your default messaging app.
Coming soon to iPhone
Apple has confirmed that RCS support is on the way to iOS. The rollout has already started in some countries, and Sweden is expected to follow soon. That means Android and iPhone users will soon be able to exchange full-featured RCS messages – without using third-party apps.
Summary – are you ready for the future of SMS?
✅ Have a new Android? RCS is already activated
🔧 Have an older phone? Follow our guide and video walkthrough
📱 iPhone user? RCS is coming soon to iOS in Sweden
Want to learn more about RCS?
📘 Read our guide on how businesses use RCS for smarter customer conversations
📈 See how RCS compares to SMS in our feature breakdown
