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What is an RCS text message?

 RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a way cell phones handle text messaging that provides more advanced features. It allows for things like:
  • Read receipts: You can see when your message has been read.
  • Typing indicators: You can see when the other person is typing a response.
  • High-quality media sharing: Send images, videos, and audio files with better quality than standard SMS.
  • Group chats: Manage group conversations more effectively.
  • Location sharing: Share your location in real-time.

RCS works over Wi-Fi or mobile data, making it more versatile than SMS. It's supported by many carriers and devices, though it's not available everywhere yet. RCS messages can be sent between two phones that are both enabled for RCS.

RCS messages use your mobile data, not your text message allotment.

 
Does RedPocket Mobile support RCS text messaging?

Yes! RedPocket supports RCS text messaging on all networks, for both Android and iPhone devices. Visit redpocket.com/plans to get started with a new line of service. 

 
Enable RCS on iPhone

iPhone devices running iOS 18 or later have access to this feature.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Messages.
  3. Tap the toggle next to RCS Messaging.

Make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest version for the best compatibility.

 
Enable RCS on Android

Android devices running 5.0 or later have access to this feature. Wording varies depending on your manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, Motorola, etc.)

  1. Open the text message app.

  2. Tap the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner or tap your profile icon.

  3. Select Settings or Messages settings.

  4. Tap Chat messages or RCS chats. 

  5. Turn on Chat messages or RCS chats. 

  6. Make sure Status shows Connected or On.

You'll get a message indicating that RCS is active. You may also see features like read receipts and typing indicators in your conversations. Make sure your Messages app is up to date for the best compatibility.

Important! If you do not see these options in the messaging application on your phone, you’ll need to download the Google Messenger app instead. The Google Messenger app will provide you with RCS services on devices running 5.0 (Lollipop) or newer.

 
RCS text messaging in the Google Messenger App
First, download Google Messenger, then make the Google Messenger App your default mobile application, and finally verify your RedPocket Mobile phone number within the app’s settings.
 
Download the Google Messenger App

  1. Tap on the Google Play Store icon.

  2. Tap on the search bar at the top.

  3. Search for "Messages" or "Google Messages".

  4. Locate Messages by Google LLC.

  5. Install the application.

  6. Once installed, tap on the Open button in the Play Store, or find the Messages app on your home screen or app drawer.

 

Set Google Messenger as your default messaging application

If you want to make Messages your default messaging app, it will usually prompt you to do so the first time you open it.

Alternatively:

  1. Go to your phone's Settings.

  2. Tap on Apps.

  3. Tap Default apps.

  4. Tap SMS.

  5. Select the Google Messenger app.

 

Verify your number in the Google Messenger App

  1. Open the Google Messenger App.
  2. Tap on your profile icon. 
  3. Tap Messages settings.
  4. Tap RCS Chats.

The app will try to verify your number automatically. You should have no issues after properly and successfully activating your RedPocket Mobile wireless plan. However, if it’s been a while and your number still has not been verified, you may click the Verify My Number button. 

Once verified, you’ll be able to use RCS text messages to communicate.

 
Having trouble?

If you're unable to use RCS on your Android device, be sure you're using the Google Messages app. If you continue to have issues with your RCS messaging, contact us for help! Visit redpocket.com/contact-us.