What is RCS Messaging?
Rich Communications Services (RCS) is an enhanced messaging experience that improves texting between iPhone and Android devices.
With RCS, you can:
- Share high-quality photos and videos
- See delivery and read receipts
- View typing indicators
- Enjoy improved group messaging
- Send messages over WiFi or cellular data when available
What you need
To use RCS Messaging, you'll need:
- An iPhone running iOS 18 or later
- A GCI wireless line that supports RCS
What you need to know
Android
- Android users running Android 5.0 or later
- For setup assistance, visit Google Support: Turn on RCS chats in Google Messages
iPhone
- iPhone users must be running iOS 18 or later
- For setup assistance, visit Apple Support: Turn on RCS messaging on your iPhone
Note: After enabling RCS, activation may take a few minutes to complete.
RCS is not currently available with GCI FastPhone Prepaid service.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between RCS and SMS?
RCS is a modern messaging technology that supports high-quality media sharing, read receipts, typing indicators, and enhanced group messaging, features not available with traditional SMS.
Will RCS work with Android phones?
Yes. RCS is designed to improve messaging between iPhone and Android users.
Will my messages still appear green?
Yes. Messages sent to Android users will continue to appear as green bubbles, even when RCS is enabled.
Why don't I see the RCS option in Settings?
Possible reasons include:
- Your iPhone is not running iOS 18 or later
- Carrier settings have not yet been updated
- RCS activation is still in progress
- Your device may need to be restarted after updating
Is there a charge to use RCS?
RCS uses WiFi or cellular data to send messages and media. Standard data usage may apply.