RCS stands for Rich Communication Services. It is the modern replacement for SMS, built into the default messaging app on many Android phones and supported on iPhone from iOS 18.
What RCS adds over SMS
- A verified sender name and logo.
- Images, video and carousels.
- Suggested replies and action buttons.
- Typing indicators and read receipts.
How it relates to WhatsApp
RCS reaches people in their default messaging app without needing another app installed. WhatsApp offers a richer, more established business platform in many countries. Many businesses use both, with RCS or SMS as a fallback.
Availability
RCS business messaging depends on the country, mobile carrier and device. Businesses register as a verified sender before sending.
In Whatsuite
Suits Agents can run on RCS alongside web, WhatsApp, phone and SMS, sharing one memory per customer. The Business plan includes SMS fallback for important messages.