Here’s how RCS works, the new text messaging that threatens to displace WhatsApp | Your technology | Country

There are three acronyms that promise to change the world of messaging: RCS. Rich Communication Services is a standard designed to improve and eventually replace common SMS/MMS text messaging systems and possibly replace the ubiquitous WhatsApp. Apple recently announced that it would adopt the RCS standard after years of pressure from Google to implement the technology, and the adoption of RCS is already enabling conversation between iPhone and Android. According to Miguel Lopez, CEO of Barracuda Networks, RCS is “a messaging standard designed to enhance and ultimately replace common SMS/MMS text messaging systems.”

But what can RCS do that WhatsApp can’t?

Rich messaging without the need for additional apps

One of the main advantages of RCS is that it does not require additional applications to provide advanced messaging functionality. Users can send texts, images, videos and larger files directly from the default messaging app on their devices. Integrated into the operating system, RCS eliminates dependency on third-party apps like WhatsApp, simplifying the process and reducing device space.

In addition, RCS provides features such as read receipts, real-time typing indicators, and group chat creation, all without the need to install additional software. This native integration makes the service much easier to implement, especially for users less familiar with the technology or who prefer not to clutter their devices with too many apps.

Native integration with carriers and devices

Supported by the GSMA, which represents the majority of the world’s mobile operators and manufacturers, RCS provides excellent integration between mobile devices and networks. This means messaging features are optimized to work efficiently across carrier networks, offering a smoother, faster experience than apps that rely solely on the Internet.

This integration also makes it possible to send and receive messages even in areas with limited or unstable connectivity, as RCS can leverage both mobile data and traditional SMS/MMS infrastructure to ensure message delivery.

Unified user interface for different brands and models.

RCS strives to standardize rich messaging across all devices, regardless of manufacturer or model. This means features like large file sharing, read receipts, and group chats will be available the same on any brand of Android device, and perhaps in the future on devices running other operating systems.

This standardization eliminates fragmentation and compatibility issues that can arise when using third-party applications. While WhatsApp needs to be installed, maintained, updated on every device, and functionality may vary across operating systems, RCS offers a consistent and unified experience for all users.

Using a phone number without additional registration

With RCS, a user’s phone number acts as a unique identifier without the need to create additional accounts, usernames, or profiles. Users can start communicating immediately, without registering, verifying or accepting additional conditions.

This makes the user experience much easier, especially for older or less technical users. WhatsApp, for its part, requires you to download the app, verify your phone number, and configure your privacy and profile settings.

Independence of private companies and greater confidentiality

Another significant advantage of RCS on paper is that it is not controlled by a single company, but is an open standard supported by many operators and manufacturers around the world. This means that user data and communications are not centralized on one organization’s servers for commercial purposes, as is the case with WhatsApp and its parent company Meta.

This independence can lead to greater protection of privacy and data security, as operators are subject to strict telecommunications and data protection regulations. Additionally, since there is no company profiting from user information, the risk of commercial use of personal data is reduced.

Integrated business and customer service capabilities

RCS offers businesses the ability to more effectively engage with customers through enhanced messaging. In the future, these new features will bring boarding passes, purchase confirmations, order updates, and other interactive communications directly into a user’s default messaging app.

These enterprise capabilities allow companies to offer more personalized services without requiring the customer to install additional applications or register on certain platforms. WhatsApp Business offers some of these features, but requires the user to have the app installed and agree to communicate in this way.

Greater user control

By not relying on a specific app, users have more control over how and with whom they communicate. They can manage their messages directly from their device settings, adjusting permissions and preferences without having to navigate to settings in a third-party app.

In addition, integrating RCS into the operating system allows you to receive security updates and functionality improvements faster and be more transparent to the user, increasing trust and ease of use.

Can RCS Displace WhatsApp?

The protocol, built into the mobile phone from the factory, requiring no configuration and offering many of the same features as the leading app, has a strong potential to compete with WhatsApp. However, the widespread adoption of RCS has encountered obstacles such as a lack of unified support between manufacturers and operators, as well as initial resistance from some companies to its full implementation.

WhatsApp has become an ingrained social habit. He managed to position himself as a standard of communication even among older people. Javier Lacorte, editor of the technology blog Xataka, believes that “it is extremely unlikely that RCS will displace WhatsApp in Spain or even increase its share.” WhatsApp is more than an app, it’s an ingrained social habit.”

However, Fernando Suarez, president of the General Council of Colleges of Computer Engineering, emphasizes that “RCS has the potential to impact the messaging market, especially if it achieves mass adoption by operators and manufacturers.” The potential addition of RCS to devices that did not previously support it and growing industry support could encourage its use.

In short, RCS offers functionality that WhatsApp cannot match in terms of integration, simplicity and privacy. Being built directly into the operating system, using a phone number without the need for additional registrations and not depending on a private company to operate, makes communication easier right away and better protects user data.

But displacing WhatsApp will not be an easy task due to its deeply entrenched user base. RCS is positioned as a real alternative in the world of instant messaging, especially for those who value their privacy and prefer not to depend on third-party applications.