Communication protocol | |
Abbreviation | RCS |
---|---|
Purpose | Instant messaging |
Developer(s) | GSMA |
Introduction | September 15, 2008 November 16, 2016 (Universal Profile specifications) | (original specifications)
Based on | HTTP(S), SIP(S), (S)MSRP |
OSI layer | Application layer |
Port(s) | unknown |
Website | www |
Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a communication protocol standard for instant messaging, primarily for mobile phones, developed and defined by the GSM Association (GSMA). It aims to be a replacement of SMS and MMS on cellular networks with a communication system that is richer and modern. As for MMS, mobile service must be activated. Development of RCS began in 2007 but early versions lacked features and interoperability; a new specification named Universal Profile was developed and has been continually rolled out since 2017.[1]
RCS has been designed as an industry open standard[2][3] to provide improved capabilities over basic text messaging, based on the Internet Protocol (IP). Its development has also been supported by mobile network operators to regain their influence against individual OTT (over-the-top) chat apps and services.[4] Features of RCS include presence information, location and multimedia sharing, video calling, and operation over mobile data or Wi-Fi, natively integrated in mobile phones without requiring the download of third-party apps.[5]
As of 2020, RCS has rolled out across 90 cell operators in 60 countries globally,[6] and has 421 million monthly active users as of 2022.[7] RCS can also be used anywhere without carrier support using Google Messages on Android, where it is provided via their own Jibe backend in place of a carrier's while still connected to the global RCS network, and additionally offer end-to-end encryption.[8][9] Apple added support for RCS in Messages with iOS 18 in September 2024; RCS is also accessible through desktops via the web client of Google Messages[10] or via Microsoft Phone Link.[11]