Key Takeaways
According to a study, RCS marketing campaigns have seen 200% increases in click rates. Navigating the shift from traditional SMS messaging and SMS verification to can be crucial for enhancing compatibility and reliability.
Switching from RCS to SMS ensures simpler, more reliable messaging across all devices and networks.
How to Switch from RCS to SMS
Here’s how you can switch from RCS to SMS
- Using the Default Messaging App
- Open the Messaging App
Locate and tap on your device's default messaging app icon.
- Access Settings
Look for the settings menu, usually represented by three dots or lines in the top right corner of the app.
- Find Chat Features or Advanced Settings
Within the settings menu, search for an option labelled "Chat features," "Advanced settings" or something similar.
- Disable RCS
Look for a toggle switch or option to turn off RCS, chat features or enhanced messaging. Tap this option to disable RCS.
- Confirm the Change
You may be prompted to confirm your decision. Accept the confirmation to proceed.
- Restart the App
Close the messaging app completely and reopen it to ensure the changes take effect.
- Using Google Messages App
- Open Google Messages
Tap the Google Messages app icon on your device.
- Access Settings
Tap on the three-dot menu in the top right corner and select "Settings."
- Navigate to Chat Features
In the settings menu, find and tap on "Chat features."
- Turn Off Chat Features
At the top of the screen, you'll see a toggle switch for "Enable chat features." Turn this off to disable RCS.
- Confirm the Action
A pop-up may appear asking you to confirm. Tap "Turn off" to proceed.
- Wait for Deactivation
The app may take a few moments to deactivate RCS. Once complete, you'll be using SMS by default.
- Carrier-Specific Instructions
- Check Carrier Website
Visit your mobile carrier's website or support pages for specific instructions on disabling RCS.
- Contact Customer Support
If you can't find the information online, contact your carrier's customer support for guidance.
- Follow Carrier-Specific Steps
Implement the steps provided by your carrier, which may involve changing settings in a carrier-specific app or dialing a specific code.
- Temporary Workaround
- Turn Off Mobile Data
Disable mobile data on your device.
- Clear App Data
Go to your device's Settings > Apps > Messaging App > Storage > Clear Data.
- Send a Message
Try sending a message. Without data, it should default to SMS.
- Re-enable Mobile Data
Once you've confirmed SMS is working, you can turn mobile data back on.
This is for P2P RCS messaging. If you are a business and trying to do an RCS campaign for your users, it will be difficult for you to reach them if they have turned off RCS messaging.
Given below are some pointers you can consider while switching off RCS and businesses can also factor these in while creating their communication channel strategy.
Reasons to Switch from RCS to SMS
Here are reasons to switch from RCS to SMS
- Works on All Phones
SMS is supported by almost all mobile phones and networks. Unlike RCS, which needs both the sender and recipient to have compatible devices and carriers, SMS can be sent to any phone.
This means your messages will always reach the recipient, no matter what type of phone or network they are using.
This makes SMS more ideal for use cases like OTP SMS verification for user authentication.
- More Reliable in Low-Signal Areas
SMS is known for being reliable, even in places with weak cellular signals. Because SMS uses a simple technology, messages can still be sent and received when data services like RCS might not work.
This makes SMS a great option for people who often find themselves in areas with poor network coverage. You can also explore SMS with WiFi.
- Simple and Easy to Use
SMS offers a straightforward messaging experience without the extra features of RCS. It’s simple and easy to use, which can be great for those who are not tech-savvy or who prefer basic communication without distractions.
- Saves Battery Life
RCS uses more battery power because it relies on advanced features and a constant internet connection. If you want to save your phone’s battery, switching to SMS can help extend your device’s battery life.
- Better for Privacy
RCS includes features like read receipts and typing notifications, which some users might find intrusive. SMS is a simpler messaging system that doesn’t have these features, offering a bit more privacy.
- Lower Costs
In some places, RCS messages might count as data usage, which could lead to extra charges. SMS, however, is usually included in most mobile plans without additional costs.
Although, this will differ a lot basis geography. You can compare RCS pricing with SMS pricing.
- Good for Cross-Platform Messaging
If you often text people on different networks or in other countries, SMS is a reliable way to ensure your messages are delivered without any compatibility issues.
- Less Overwhelming
RCS comes with a lot of features, which can feel overwhelming for some users. If you prefer a simpler, less distracting messaging experience, SMS is a better choice.
- Better During Network Congestion
During busy times, like large events or emergencies, SMS or A2P messages often get through more reliably than data-dependent services like RCS.
- Works on Older Devices
If you or people you communicate with use older phones that don’t support RCS, switching to SMS makes sure your messages are received without any problems.
Business Communication with Message Central
Message Central is CPaaS platform providing multiple channels for business communication. Offering both RCS and SMS, Message Central also offers WhatsApp. The solutions are for both, promotional communication and user authentication.
You can get in touch with the team to get started.
Conclusion
Switching from RCS to SMS can offer a more reliable, simple and universally compatible messaging experience. While RCS provides advanced features, SMS ensures your messages reach anyone, anywhere, without compatibility issues or data dependency.
This transition is especially useful if you prioritize battery life, simplicity and communication in low-signal areas. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily make the switch and continue messaging with confidence. Ultimately, choosing SMS allows you to focus on what matters most- staying connected with ease.
