Why Are My Messages Sent as SMS Instead of RCS?
Messaging on my phone has been acting up in the strangest way recently. When chatting with Android users, their messages come through as RCS, complete with the familiar typing indicators. Yet, when I reply, my messages are inexplicably sent as SMS instead of RCS. Oddly, this issue seems to affect only one contact. When she messages me, it’s sent as RCS, but my responses always revert to SMS.
What’s even more baffling is that when I use a Pixel device, messages to the same contact go through as RCS, but her replies from an iPhone are received as Text. This inconsistency makes conversations frustratingly disjointed. To make matters worse, there are moments throughout the day when my messages get stuck in the “sending” phase, with notifications telling me they’ll be delivered when I “come back online.” Despite this, I’m still able to send other RCS messages to the same contact without issue during those times. However, I’m usually stuck receiving her replies as plain Text messages.
What is RCS Messaging?
RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a modern upgrade to traditional SMS messaging, offering enhanced features for users who don’t use iMessage. With RCS, you can send and receive high-resolution photos and videos, share links, and enjoy advanced features like delivery and read receipts, as well as real-time typing indicators. Messages sent via RCS appear in green text bubbles on your device, distinguishing them from SMS or iMessages.
While Apple’s implementation of RCS aligns with the industry standard, it comes with certain limitations. For instance, RCS messages are not end-to-end encrypted, making them susceptible to interception during transmission. This lack of encryption means that your messages could potentially be accessed by third parties.
RCS relies on carrier support and operates as a service provided by your cellular network. When activated, your device communicates with your carrier and its partners to enable RCS functionality. This process involves exchanging user identifiers like your IMEI, IMSI, phone number, and current IP address. In some cases, your IP address may also be visible to other RCS users.
To use RCS on an iPhone, you need to have iOS 18 or later installed and a text-messaging plan with a carrier that supports RCS. To check or modify your RCS settings, go to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging. We previously explained how you can turn off RCS on iPhone. Check that article for more information. For more information about compatibility and setup, contact your wireless carrier.
Potential Fixes for the RCS Messaging Issue
- Toggle RCS Messaging off and on
- Go into your settings and toggle OFF RCS messaging.
- Turn your phone off.
- After it’s powered back on, go into the settings again and toggle RCS back on.
- Update to the Latest iOS Version
- Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version. Since the Messages app is part of the iOS software, this update will also ensure the app is up to date and functioning properly.
- Reset Network Settings
- Open the Settings app.
- Select General.
- Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Choose Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Confirm by selecting Reset Network Settings again.
Note: When you reset network settings, all your network-related configurations will be erased. This includes saved Wi-Fi passwords, paired Bluetooth devices, VPN settings, and cellular preferences. Make sure to have this information handy before proceeding. We previously explained what exactly occurs when you reset network settings. Check that article for more detailed insights.
This problem is a network issue. We also previously explained how you can fix cellular data issues. If this article does not help, check that article for more detailed solutions.