SMS as a channel of communication is still relevant due to the maximum coverage of cellular users, delivery regardless of Internet availability, display on the locked screen and storage in the phone. At the same time, the possibilities of business communication via SMS are significantly limited by the text-only message format and the character limit.

In order to integrate the function of transmitting different types of data into mobile messages, the GSMA has developed and is implementing a new industry standard — RCS (Rich Communication Service).

In addition to the advantages of SMS, RCS messages have significantly enhanced capabilities. The protocol allows without additional applications to send multimedia information directly during communication.

Photos, audio and video in high resolution are transmitted with this technology without loss of quality. As for the text, the number of characters in a message can be any.

Thus, to summarize what RCS is, it is a new cellular standard for the transmission of all types of data.

Who Can Use RCS Messages?

It is necessary that the RCS function is supported by your operator. You can use RCS chats to communicate with other users who have RCS enabled. If you use RCS, you will be charged a data transfer fee.

Many Android devices have built-in support for RCS messages, but Apple has promised to make iPhones compatible with the new standard in 2024.

Communication via RCS Messages: What Does It Bring to Business?

Businesses are primarily interested in the real benefits of the implemented technologies, converted into profit. Let's take a look at what RCS messaging is as part of the image and marketing component of business.

The new messaging standard speeds up interactions, makes them interactive and more informative. You can send voice messages, create group chats to solve work tasks. Photo and audio exchange thanks to the new protocol is instantaneous, and there is no need to use third-party applications that take up smartphone RAM.

The new technology simplifies sending both advertising and transactional messages to customers. The effectiveness of mass mailings is greatly enhanced through the use of brand identity, audio and video.

Businesses will benefit from the following advantages of RCS messaging:

• Ability to track not only the transmission but also the reading of notifications and their input.
• Facilitating feedback from customers: an auto-responder can be set up to answer questions, collect feedback and pay attention to all complaints.
• Wide possibilities for multimedia sharing: RCS can have buttons, carousels, embedded animations, stickers, and contain audio clips.
• An interesting solution for online stores is the function of viewing purchase and payment receipts.
• Possibility to exchange location with clients: with RCS messages it is easy to send geographical coordinates.
• Personal data security: messages are sent with confidentiality and cannot be viewed by third parties.

RCS messaging can be used by banks and government services, as messages are securely protected by end-to-end encryption. Google explains that when the RCS function is activated, lock signs appear in the chat and it will not be possible to use the service without encryption. The correspondence is also unavailable for viewing by mobile operators.

If you are looking for a universal way to communicate with your customers, Decision Telecom is ready to offer an optimal solution. Learn more about what RCS messaging is and take advantage of all the opportunities of this modern technology for the growth and development of your business.