What is the difference between RCS and messaging apps like WhatsApp ? 💬

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With the democratization of RCS (Rich Communication Services), one question frequently comes up: what’s the difference between this protocol and popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram and iMessage? In this week’s #QuestionAuxGriots, we’re going to clarify these distinctions.

Technology and infrastructure 📡

RCS is a standardized protocol for text messages, designed to replace traditional SMS/MMS. It operates directly at the mobile carrier level, meaning it’s integrated into smartphones’ native messaging services.

Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or iMessage are Over-the-Top (OTT) messaging services, which means they operate over the Internet, independently of mobile carriers. They use a data connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

Features and security 🔓

RCS offers modern features similar to those of OTT messaging apps, such as group chats, high-quality photo and video sharing, read receipts, and typing indicators. However, features may vary depending on support and implementation by the carrier.

Unlike OTT messaging apps, RCS does not include end-to-end encryption by default, although Google has added this feature for RCS messages sent through its Messages app on Android.