Set up RCS Messaging on iPhone

Send higher definition pictures and longer videos. See when your messages and chats are delivered and read using Rich Communication Services (RCS).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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On iPhones using iOS 18 or later, RCS messaging is enabled by default. To use it, simply open the Message app on your iPhone and begin messaging another person with an RCS-capable smartphone using Google Messages and wireless (or Wi-Fi) data service. If you want to disable RCS messaging:

Go to Settings, then scroll to Apps and select Messages.
Scroll to RCS Messaging, where you can turn it ON or OFF.

Good to know: RCS features (like read receipts) only appear for you and others in your conversation, if you both turn RCS Messaging ON and have a sufficient data connection.

RCS Messaging vs. traditional text messaging

RCS messaging¹ offers enhanced features like read and delivery receipts, typing notifications, larger file transfers, and group chats. RCS is available on Apple devices using the Messages app and on Android devices using the Google Messages app.

Send larger files: Send larger file attachments than with MMS, like higher-definition pictures and longer or higher-resolution videos.
Larger group chats: Up to 100 participants in a group chat, an increase from previous SMS/MMS messaging limit of 20 participants.
Create flexible group chats: Users can be added to, and easily leave, an existing message thread.
Get delivery and read receipts: See when your messages are delivered and when they are read. Prefer other people not know when you’ve read their message? Go to Settings and turn Send Read Receipts OFF.

Feature	Traditional text messaging	RCS
Delivery receipts		Yes
Read receipts		Yes
Typing notifications		Yes
File sharing up to 1MB	Yes
File sharing up to 100MB		Yes
Group message up to 20 contacts	Yes
Group chat up to 100 contacts		Yes
Open group chat (others can leave or be added to the same thread)		Yes

See all important details

Last updated: September 16, 2024

Set up RCS Messaging on iPhone

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

RCS Messaging vs. traditional text messaging

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