How to set up and manage RCS messaging on Android phones

RCS Chat brings modern messaging features to Android users through the Google Messages app. Unlike traditional SMS or MMS, RCS (Rich Communication Services) supports read receipts, high-resolution media sharing, group chats, and end-to-end encryption. This guide explains how RCS works, how to turn it on or off, and how to make the most of its features.

Understanding RCS and how it differs from SMS

RCS is a developed communication protocol that modernizes text messaging using a user’s mobile data plan to send text messages via SMS or MMS. Google began promoting widespread use of RCS in 2019, nearly a decade after it was first developed in 2007. Inline replies, typing indicators, and even encryption are some of the features RCS provides. These functions are also supported by WhatsApp and iMessage.

The ability to send and receive messages over Wi-Fi or data is the single most important feature added over SMS. Exchanging richer content is another important feature. In addition, Android users no longer have to use third-party apps for messaging. An enhanced messaging experience is now built into the default Message app. In September 2028, Apple integrated RCS into iOS 18, which improved cross-platform connectivity.

When setting up the Messages app for the first time or switching to a new device, Google often prompts users to enable RCS. Chat features activation approval is required through a dialog box. If accepted, users will see the terms “Chat message” or “RCS message” in the text input section, after which users are deemed ready. However, users can also enable RCS manually through app settings in case the prompt fails to appear.

How to turn on RCS chats in Google Messages

To activate RCS on your device:

1. Open the Google Messages app.

2. Tap your profile icon in the upper-right corner.

3. Select Messages settings.

4. Tap RCS chats.

5. Turn on RCS chats using the toggle switch.

6. You may need to verify your phone number. Once verified, your status should read “Connected.”

At this point, you can start sending messages over data or Wi-Fi. If the feature isn’t available, it may be due to regional limitations or lack of carrier support.

Turning off RCS chats when needed

There may be times when you want to turn off RCS—perhaps due to connection issues, switching phones, or personal preference. To disable RCS:

1. Open the Messages app.

2. Tap your profile icon, then Messages settings.

3. Select RCS chats.

4. Toggle off RCS chats.

5. A pop-up will warn you about leaving group chats. Tap Turn off to confirm.

Once disabled, messages will revert to standard SMS or MMS. It’s a good idea to disable RCS before switching phones to avoid delivery problems. If you no longer have access to your old phone, Google offers a web form to deregister your number from RCS services.

Avoid toggling the feature on and off too frequently, as repeated changes in a short time may temporarily block access to RCS chat.

Knowing how your message is sent

It’s easy to tell how your message is being delivered. Look at the send icon while composing a message:

• A regular arrow or arrow with a lock: the message is being sent via Wi-Fi or data using RCS.

• An arrow with SMS: it’s being sent as a standard text.

• An arrow with MMS: it’s being sent as a multimedia message.

RCS messages sent over Wi-Fi typically don’t incur carrier charges, but mobile data usage can apply—especially for sending media.

Checking your RCS chat status

Your phone will show whether RCS is active or not:

1. Tap your profile icon in Messages.

2. Go to Messages settings > General > RCS chats.

Your status can show as:

• Connected: You’re ready to use RCS.

• Setting up: Your phone number is still being verified.

• Disconnected: RCS is not currently available—check your data or Wi-Fi connection.

If your status remains in “Setting up” for too long, try tapping Retry.

What features come with RCS chat?

RCS includes many of the features users expect from modern messaging apps:

• Send read receipts: You’ll see check marks for sent, delivered, and read messages. This can be turned on or off.

• Typing indicators: When someone is typing, you’ll see an indication in real-time.

• Resend messages as SMS/MMS: If RCS is unavailable, messages can fall back to traditional formats.

• Auto-download media: Files can be set to download automatically over data or Wi-Fi. You can adjust these settings to avoid high data usage or roaming charges.

All these options are located in Messages settings > RCS chats.

Extra built-in features in Google Messages

Beyond basic text exchange, Google Messages supports:

• Message reactions: Press and hold a message to react with an emoji. This works whether or not RCS is enabled.

• Group messaging: If everyone in a conversation uses RCS, you get enhanced group chat features, including delivery status and typing indicators.

• End-to-end encryption: When both parties use RCS, messages are encrypted. A lock icon appears next to the message to confirm this.

• Reply to individual messages: You can respond to a specific message by pressing and holding, then tapping the reply arrow.

• YouTube previews: Shared links to YouTube can be viewed directly within the app.

• Smart replies: The app offers quick response suggestions based on the conversation.

These features help bring Google Messages on par with iMessage, WhatsApp, and other platforms.

Cross-platform messaging with Apple now possible

Perhaps the most notable shift came in 2024 when Apple incorporated RCS with the release of iOS 18. This change integrates the messaging divide between Android and iPhone users. Communication between the two devices is no longer restricted to SMS and its numerous drawbacks. This adoption means better media exchange, encryption, and group chat functions across the two primary mobile operating systems. Even if Apple’s execution isn’t identical, the fact that RCS is activated on both phones means conversations can happen without external applications such as AirMessage.