RCS, MMS and SMS: What you need to know

There are three main types of messages you can send on your phone: RCS, SMS, and MMS. Each type supports different features, so what you use depends on your needs. Today, RCS and MMS are the most commonly used because they’re supported on most devices, and cover the features SMS has available.

What is RCS?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is an enhanced messaging protocol that brings modern features to traditional SMS/MMS. It offers:

High-quality multimedia sharing
Typing indicators
Read receipts
Reactions and secure chats
A more app-like messaging experience

How to use RCS on Ting:

Google Messages

Open the Google Messages app.
Tap your profile picture or icon in the top-right corner.
Select Messages settings.
Tap RCS chats.
Turn RCS chats on or off.

iPhone

Go to Settings.
Tap Apps.
Select Messages.
Find RCS Messaging under Text Messaging.
Toggle RCS Messaging on or off.

Note: RCS is supported on Google Messages and iPhones with Ting but is not compatible with Android’s manufacturer-specific messaging apps.

What is SMS?

SMS (Short Message Service) is the simplest form of text messaging. It allows for short text exchanges (up to 160 characters) between two mobile devices.

If messages longer than 160 characters will automatically convert to MMS.
SMS is enabled by default on your Ting phone.
Manufacturer-specific apps, Google Messages and iPhones support SMS.

Troubleshooting: If you experience any issues, troubleshoot your SMS.

What is MMS?

MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) builds on SMS by allowing you to send:

Pictures
Audio and video files
Phone contacts
Group messages
Messages over 160 characters

MMS is enabled by default on Ting lines.

Troubleshooting: If you encounter problems, check out our MMS troubleshooting guide.

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