August 13, 2024

RCS messaging — new level of clients communication

Today we have access to different channels for efficient messaging. Rich Communication Services (RCS) is one of them. It was built in 2008 as an enhanced replacement to SMS and MMS. With such features as media sharing, read receipts and interactive content, it creates an advanced attractive landscape.

Below we will explore what RCS is, its functionality and benefits for business.

What is RCS

Rich Communication Services is a tool introduced as an evolution of traditional SMS and MMS. It works on an Internet connection and does not require the installation of external programms. Smartphone owners could use RCS in standard devices just like SMS.

Opposed to SMS or MMS, RCS protocol makes it possible to include different media content, buttons and other elements. Unlike messengers, RCS does not need any additional apps. All of these boost the advanced communication and interaction via it.

In February 2008, the GSM Association officially announced RCS as the next milestone of mobile messaging. Ten years later 47 mobile network operators, 11 manufacturers, and 2 OS providers (Google and Microsoft) confirmed their support of RCS. In 2023 Apple announced the intention to introduce RCS support in a year.

RCS becomes more than just a communication channel — it’s a valuable tool for companies. A wide range of advanced features makes it an affordable solution for fast and efficient clients’ contacting.

What RCS features are worth mentioning

The functions below may seem familiar to active messengers users. However they are a breakthrough compared to SMS. A set of specifications and features to enable enhanced messaging capabilities:

• Size of message is not limited to 160 characters
• Set of high quality photos and multimedia
• Dynamic group chat and file transfer features
• Delivery, read receipts and typing indicators
• Cards and carousels with the products redirecting to the website in a click
• Client-to-server encryption with optional end-to-end encryption
• Allows branded messaging and verifying message senders
• Supports options for a call-to-action in the channel
• Supports video calls by default
• Geolocation sharing

RCS service allows companies to create personalized and engaging content that helps them drive better client experience. As a result — improve sales and profit.

Why your business needs RCS

RCS makes it possible to include a variety of high-quality elements in messages, does not need apps installation or anything else. All of these provide the informativeness and attractiveness of a tool.

As a result, with RCS benefits business gets:

1. Interactive and attractive messaging
The tool allows for the attachment of high-quality media files with size limits of up to 100MB — this flexibility enhances the richness of content shared within messages. Brand names, colors, and media elements are also available — it extremely reinforces brand recognition.

2. Improved user experience
Messaging approach via RCS and the potential for personalisation are valued by users. Offering relevant products, exclusive personal offers, and discounts encourage clients’ appreciation, cultivate brand trust and dedication.

3. Increased sales
With features like carousels, brands can demonstrate their products or services in a single message, making it convenient for customers to observe and purchase.

4. High security
RCS supports end-to-end encryption for one-on-one conversations as well as for group chats — it means that nobody could access the communication except its participants. Your and your clients’ sensitive information will be kept confidential.

5. Usability
The solution facilitates interactions with external apps, allowing companies to create dynamic and engaging communication. This functionality opens up new possibilities for user interaction within the messaging platform.

6. Analytics
The solution supports built-in analytics, offers tracking of such metrics as delivery rates, open / read rates, engagement levels, etc. This valuable data empowers businesses to improve their messaging strategies and personalize communication for better efficiency.

In spite of the fact that RCS is not yet fully adopted, it can turn out to be a big opportunity for both companies and clients to improve their relationship. The numbers below prove it better than any arguments!

Will RCS become the future of mobile business messaging?

1. According to Juniper Research the global number of active RCS users will reach 1.1 billion in 2024, rising from 930 million in 2023.

2. The agency also predicted that 50% of mobile subscriptions globally will be capable of receiving RCS business messages next year.

3. Marketing Tech News states that 36% of brands are planning to adopt RCS when it becomes available for them, 94% said that they wanted to use the technology to deliver richer content to their clients, 89% are excited about the technology’s potential to have chatbot-based conversational interactions with users.

4. The global RCS market was estimated to be worth US $8.37 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $19.48 billion by 2028.

Summing up: Rich Communication Services is a promising channel. Introducing RCS, you may provide extended media file sizes, interactive elements like clickable links, suggested responses, and even integrated payments. This opens up new avenues to engage with your audience, offering personalized and advanced solutions directly within the messaging platform.