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How to Turn Off RCS Messaging? A Step-by-Step Guide

Published 02 December 2024

how to turn off rcs messaging in iphones and android

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People use billions of texts to communicate with others each year. While traditional SMS (Short Message Service) and MMS (Multi Media Message) were the standard for years, RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging emerged as an advanced messaging protocol replacing both.

RCS offers features like read receipts, high-quality images and video sharing, typing indicators, and the ability to send larger files. Though it has advanced functionality, some users may want to avoid using RCS as it uses too much data, does not work well with all phones, and lacks privacy.

Turning RCS messaging off can be confusing, but it isn’t as complicated as you think. You can easily disable RCS on your device by navigating and taking the proper steps through the phone's messages settings.

What is RCS Messaging?

With over 1 billion monthly active users, RCS messaging is the messaging protocol that works over the Internet Protocol. Now, both iPhones and Android mobile phones support it. Like iMessage, it offers rich chat features such as images, videos, emojis, and interactive elements.

RCS messaging also allows users to see typing indicators, send and receive high-quality media, and create group chats, including read receipts (sent, delivered, and read status). The GSM Association (GSMA) first developed RCS messaging in 2007 and introduced it in 2008. The basic idea behind its development was to replace SMS and MMS in cellular networks with more modern features.

RCS messaging has been on Android mobile for a long time. However, Apple recently started supporting it in messages, i.e., in September 2024. Users can also access RCS through their desktops via a Microsoft Phone link or as a web client of Google Messages.

📖 You may also read: SMS vs RCS Messaging: What’s the Difference?

Why to Turn Off RCS Messaging?

Device incompatibility, dependency on carrier networks, and security concerns are the main reasons you should turn off RCS messaging on your device.

Device Incompatibility

Unlike SMS and MMS, RCS isn’t compatible with all devices. Even though RCS now comes preinstalled on recent mobile phones, not all previous devices support it. On iPhones, it requires iOS version 18 or above, and on others, Android version 5 or higher on others. So, while messaging the older phones, RCS messaging won’t work.

Cost

While most carriers offer free SMS services with their mobile plans, SMS can be effective. On the other hand, if you do not purchase an unlimited data plan, RCS can be costlier to use due to its rich features. Individuals or smaller businesses with tight budgets may want to reduce the use of RCS.

Depends on Carrier Networks

Even though RCS messaging is gaining widespread popularity, one of the main concerns is carrier network support. While many have implemented RCS, some carrier services still don’t support it. This limits its reach, and users may want to turn it off.

Security

RCS messaging is more secure than traditional SMS and MMS but still poses security threats. Because of its rich features, it is more complex and may attract more threats, such as phishing attacks. So, users should always be observant and must take appropriate measures to protect their personal information.

How to Turn Off RCS Messaging?

To deactivate RCS messaging on your device,

On iPhones: Navigate to Settings> Apps> Messages>Text messaging> Turn off the RCS messaging.
On Androids: Navigate through the Messages app> three-dot menu/profile icon> Settings> Chat features/Advance Messaging> Toggle off the RCS enable option.

Disabling RCS Messaging on Android

Open the Messages app
Tap the three-dot menu or profile icon at the top right
Navigate Settings> Chat features or Advance Messaging
Toggle off the Enable chat features option

Disabling RCS Messages on iPhones

Go to Settings
Tap on Apps > Messages
Turn off the RCS messaging switch under the Text messaging

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How to Ensure RCS Is Disabled?

You can ensure whether RCS messaging is entirely turned off by looking at the send icon in the messaging app while composing a message.

A send icon with a lock icon indicates it’s using the Internet or RCS.
A send icon with SMS written beside it indicates SMS.

Conclusion

Turning off RCS messaging is easy once you know the steps. If RCS doesn’t fit your needs due to device compatibility, data costs, or privacy concerns, following this guide will help you deactivate it on Android and iPhone. Always check that RCS is fully turned off by looking for the SMS icon when you send a message.

For users looking for a more versatile messaging solution, Calilio is an alternative to RCS messaging. Unlike RCS, which mainly supports mobile phones, our cloud phone system lets you share/send SMS and multimedia across all smart devices using the Internet. Additionally, it doesn’t rely on specific carriers to give you global reach. Sign up today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Change from RCS to SMS?

To change from RCS to SMS, you must disable RCS messaging. Open your message app, go to Settings, tap RCS chats, and toggle off the “turn RCS chats on/off” option.

Should I Turn Off RCS Messaging?

Turning off RCS messaging is advisable if you want to send only regular SMS or get a new phone. Doing so prevents you from potential messaging issues from your previous device.

Is RCS the Same as SMS?

SMS can only send text messages up to 160 characters and doesn’t support multimedia sharing. However, RCS helps overcome these limitations by providing rich communication features, including read receipts.