What's the difference between RCS and SMS text messages on iPhone?

What’s the difference between res and sms text messages?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone SE

Posted on Mar 20, 2025 5:56 AM

Reply

Top-ranking reply

Level 7

23,624 points

Posted on Mar 21, 2025 1:41 AM

See What is the difference between iMessage, RCS, and SMS/MMS? - Apple Support

View in context

Similar questions

Text messages change from imessage to sms texts So, i'll try to be as descriptive as possible. I am texting an iphone and sometimes it will be an imessage and other times it will be a SMS text. I text this person everyday and have never had a problem until about 3 days ago. It switches back and forth. I'll be connected to my wifi and it will be sent as an imessage, other times it will be sent as a text message while still connected to my wifi. Sms texts are enabled so maybe thats the issue?
684 1
iPhone with iOS 18.1.1 switches from RCS back to SMS my iPhone was sending RCS to android/Google Messages Users with no issues. iPhone upgraded to iOS 18.1.1 and now it seems to switch from RCS back to SMS. I can receive messages in RCS, though the reply is sent vis SMS. A reboot seems to fix it for a time, but then goes back to SMS. This can happen when at home, or out and about. so I don't think its a funny Cell tower. What can I do to troubleshoot this further?
2514 1
how can I get my text message data how can I get my text message data
328 2

1 reply

Top-ranking reply

Level 7

23,624 points

Mar 21, 2025 1:41 AM in response to Gimme shelter

See What is the difference between iMessage, RCS, and SMS/MMS? - Apple Support

Reply

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

What's the difference between RCS and SMS text messages on iPhone?

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up