With RCS messaging, you can send texts, high resolution photos and videos, and links to both Apple and non-Apple devices.
RCS messaging is a carrier-provided service. When you aren’t using iMessage, you can send RCS messages over Wi-Fi or cellular-data networks.
RCS text messages can be sent to non-Apple devices as well as another iPhone or other Apple devices with Text Message Forwarding turned on. With RCS, you can send texts, high resolution photos and videos, links, and more. RCS also supports delivery receipts, read receipts and typing indicators. Like MMS or SMS messages, RCS messages appear in green text bubbles on your device.
Learn about the differences between iMessage, SMS/MMS messaging, and RCS messaging
In the Settings app, tap Apps.
Tap Messages.
Tap RCS Messaging.
Turn RCS Messaging on or off.
There may be a slight delay after you first turn on RCS. To use RCS, you need iOS 18 and a cellular plan from a carrier that supports RCS messaging on iPhone. In iOS 26, you can choose which app to use for SMS, MMS, and RCS text messages. Carrier fees may apply. Contact your wireless carrier for more information.
If the RCS Messaging setting does not appear, RCS messaging might not be available. Learn whether your carrier supports RCS messaging on iPhone
Availability varies by region and carrier.
Some businesses can send alerts and updates on your orders and other transactions through RCS messaging. You can turn these off.
In the Settings app, tap Apps.
Tap Messages.
Tap RCS Messaging.
Turn RCS Business Messages on or off.
You can also report a message as junk when you receive it. Tap Report Junk in the conversation, then tap Delete and Report Junk.
In the Settings app, tap Apps.
Tap Messages.
Tap RCS Messaging.
Turn End-to-End Encryption (Beta) on or off.
End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) in Messages is available with supported carriers and will roll out over time. The feature is on by default.