What Is Android RCS Messaging and How To Enable It

With the majority population in the United States using an iPhone, iMessage is a huge selling point for Apple. The messaging service is exclusive to Apple devices, and Android users can’t be part of an iMessage gang. Well, chin up Android users, there’s something for you all as well – here’s everything you need to know about RCS messaging on your Android device!

But why is iMessage so popular? It is because it enables a high-quality, secure, interactive, and media-supported text messaging platform, and iPhone users do not need to use a third-party app. And this is exactly what RCS brings to your Android device. Let’s learn more.

What Is Android RCS Messaging and How Does it Work

RCS is an acronym for Rich Messaging Services – a technology that is aimed at replacing SMS and MMS services. There are a lot of shortcomings with SMS and MMS – such as the lack of group chats, lack of media-sharing features, typing indicators, and more. Not only does RCS adds all of the features, but also operates on the built-in Messages app. This eliminates the need to download any third-party app to communicate with your contacts. Of course, it only supports Android and does not support iOS devices.

RCS is supported by all major carriers, and you can use it directly from the messaging app that is pre-installed on your Android device. To send and receive messages over the RCS protocol, you need to connect your Android device to mobile data or a Wi-Fi network.

Here are some of the major features of the RCS protocol on the built-in messaging app:

• RCS messages display when someone is typing.
• RCS messages show read receipts.
• Using RCS, you can send messages over mobile data and Wi-Fi.
• RCS messages let you share files and high-resolution photos.
• RCS messages offer end-to-end encryption.

Requirements to Use RCS Chat on Android

Here are some of the requirements to use RCS chat on your Android device.

• You need to have stable Wi-Fi or a cellular network connection.
• You need to message contacts or users who have RCS enabled on their devices as well.
• Both devices participating in RCS messaging have to be Android devices.
• Your carrier needs to support the RCS messaging feature on your device.
• Your default messaging app needs to support the RCS feature.

How To Enable RCS Messaging on Android

Here’s how to easily enable RCS messaging on your Android device. Your default messaging app may or may not support the RCS feature. Google Messages is the default messaging app on your Android device. If not, download Google Messages from Play Store using the link below.

Download Google Messages

Step 1: Open the Messages app on your Android phone.

Step 2: Tap on your profile icon at the top-right corner.

Step 3: Select Messages Settings.

Step 4: Tap on RCS Chats.

Step 5: Tap the toggle next to Turn On RCS Chats to enable it, if disabled.

If you face any troubles using RCS messaging on your device, take a look at the detailed guide to troubleshoot the RCS chat feature on your Android phone.

That is everything you need to know on how to enable RCS messaging on your Android device. If you have any further questions, take a look at the FAQ section below.

FAQs on RCS Messaging on Android

Multimedia Messaging is Easier Than Ever on Android

We hope this article helps you use RCS messaging on your Android device. Unlike Apple, Android has taken the initiative to get iPhone users onto their exclusive messaging service as well. However, Apple has politely declined the offer to integrate RCS onto iPhones. Well, fair try Google, and wishing you better luck next time!