Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ on Verizon in the US now officially support Rich Communication Services (RCS), a unified advanced messaging solution by Google. Verizon's Advanced Messaging, which uses RCS, replaces SMS on the Galaxy S9 duo. The carrier promises to add RCS to more devices in the future.
Verizon Advanced Messaging on Galaxy S9
RCS is an evolution of the standard SMS messaging on mobile devices. It allows users to send text messages up to 8000 characters long, and offers features such as read recipients, typing indicators, and location sharing. Users of RCS can also share photos, videos, music and documents, and can create group chats with up to 100 participants. You can send messages over Wi-Fi as well, even when you don't have a cellular connection. Put simply, it transforms the default messaging app on a smartphone into an internet-based instant messaging app, like WhatsApp.
Verizon joins T-Mobile, SK Telecom, and several others in the list of carriers supporting RCS. It's Advanced Messaging service will replace the default messaging app on compatible devices in its network. As of now, only the Galaxy S9 and S9+ support the service. Also, the service is only available to postpaid customers, and is not compatible with similar RCS implementations by other US carriers. RCS messages sent to other carriers will revert to SMS and MMS messaging.
The state of RCS messaging in the US isn't great, and Verizon has just presented another example of it. Google launched RCS with an aim of unifying all messaging solutions. However, the limitations added by carriers are disappointing.
