RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next-generation successor to SMS, built into Android's native Messages app. Unlike SMS, it supports images, rich cards, action buttons, read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media and suggested replies. Unlike WhatsApp, it requires no app download. An RCS messaging service enables businesses to use verified sender branding, interactive messages and read receipt analytics. Its main limitation is that it works only on supported Android devices, while other users receive SMS fallback.

Around 55–65% of active Android users in India can receive an RCS message, provided they use Google Messages, have RCS enabled by their carrier and have an active data connection. The remaining Android users and all iOS users receive SMS fallback. As a result, businesses can effectively reach their entire audience through a combination of RCS and SMS.

Verified sender registration is completed through an RCS message provider in India or a Google-registered RCS aggregator. Businesses submit their company details, logo and website for verification, after which the provider registers the sender with Google and configures the branded profile. Once approved, recipients see the business name and logo instead of a phone number. Verification typically takes 3–7 working days, and DLT registration is usually completed during onboarding.

A rich card combines an image or video, title, description and up to three action buttons, while a carousel displays multiple rich cards that users can swipe through. These templates must be registered with an RCS message service provider before use. Popular formats include payment reminders, e-commerce promotions and OTP messages with auto-copy functionality.

A business RCS messaging service is priced per message, making it directly comparable to SMS. Although RCS messages typically cost more than SMS, they often deliver higher click-through rates, reducing the overall cost per click for engagement-focused campaigns. High-volume businesses can negotiate lower rates, while SMS fallback messages are billed at standard SMS pricing.

Yes. RCS Business Messaging requires DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology) registration under TRAI regulations. Businesses must register their entity, sender IDs and message templates before sending commercial RCS messages. Promotional messages require explicit customer opt-in and must comply with DND rules, while transactional and service messages follow the same consent requirements as SMS. Most providers offering an RCS messaging service also manage DLT registration during onboarding.