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SMS vs RCS: What’s the difference between these channels

SMS is key to any marketing strategy, offering a wide range of benefits. Its high open and conversion rates captivate not only businesses but also customers. But customers are increasingly seeking richer experiences, where interactions are engaging and simple. This is where RCS (Rich Communication Services) comes into play. In this article, we’ll explore what RCS messaging is and the main differences between SMS and RCS messages. 

Summary of contents

  • What is RCS messaging?
  • Amazing RCS Statistics
  • RCS messages are the natural evolution of SMS. 
  • But what do SMS and RCS have in common?
  • RCS messages double the singapore whatsapp number data conversion rates of traditional SMS
  • What are the main features of RCS messaging?
  • Differences between SMS and RCS
  • And, if you are concerned about security, this is your channel.
  • What are the benefits they bring to companies?
  • How can I use RCS messaging in my business?
  • What attracts consumers to RCS messaging

What is an RCS message?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages add rich features found in other platforms like WhatsApp to the already familiar text messages. They offer the ability to add images, videos, and call-to-action buttons to SMS messages. But that’s not all. They also allow for verifying the identity of the sender of messages, providing greater security and confidence for users.

According to SMSPubli ‘s analysis , simply adding a video to a message can increase conversions by 86%, opening the door for companies to optimally monetize their messages. Not only do 80% of consumers find RCS attractive, but 74% of them say this type of message would make them want to communicate with a brand. 

Amazing statistics on RCS messaging

A priori, this description of RCS may be the key to successful franchising compelling enough to convince users and businesses. Intuition leads us to believe it is indeed a key channel to incorporate into our communications strategy, but if you want to reinforce this hypothesis with objective data, below we share the key statistics that will further convince us of its benefits: 

  • More than 390 million monthly users.
  • Available through more than 88 operators in 59 countries. 
  • By the end of 2026, it will have reached 3.8 billion users across 491 operators (Juniper Research). 
  • 74% of consumers find RCS an attractive solution for travel, hotel, and leisure bookings, as well as for saving money.
  • 77% of consumers find RCS messaging appealing for ordering takeout, making restaurant reservations, and obtaining special offers or coupons.
  • 75% consider RCS interesting for online shopping with delivery and pickup.
  • 75% of consumers find RCS messaging effective for account management and customer service follow-up.

RCS messages are the natural evolution of SMS. 

While as users and consumers we seek more engaging content, as companies we want to attract potential customers. Therefore, we seek new channels that increase the engagement and loyalty of our database. 

Rich messaging is the answer to this demand, as it combines the ease of receiving messages on the phone with more visual features like those found on other popular platforms, such as WhatsApp Business. RCS, therefore, is the natural evolution of bulk SMS, as it provides this exciting new layer for both senders and recipients. 

But what do SMS and RCS have in common?

It may be obvious, but we must mention it. Both SMS and RCS use the native app that comes by default on any mobile phone, including Apple phones . 

Users don’t need to download anything, which increases the number of potential recipients of our messages and eliminates the technological barrier of having to search for and install a new app. 

RCS messages double the conversion rates of traditional SMS

RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging aero leads doubles the conversion rates of traditional SMS and even triples those of emails. According to a survey we conducted with 5,000 consumers worldwide, visual capabilities make RCS messages much more engaging, prompting customers to make purchases, make reservations, or complete surveys, thereby increasing campaign conversion rates.

What are the main features of RCS messaging?

Let’s delve deeper into the different features that characterize this type of messaging. We’ve talked about it being a rich channel, but what does this really mean? 

Rich communication is one that contains visual and engaging information, such as the various capabilities listed below: 

  • Photos and videos included in the same message. 
  • Links added in the body of the SMS. 
  • Verified sender. Adds security and value to the message. 
  • Improved statistics, such as read receipts, as well as sending, delivery, and clicks. 
  • Possibility to add payment options. Available only for premium RCS messages. 
  • Share your location via an embedded map. Available only with premium RCS messaging. 
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