Download the 2022 Email Trends and Observations Report
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
With over a billion active users worldwide, Rich Communication Services (RCS) is transforming how brands communicate with customers through mobile messaging. As the first marketing platform in the U.S. to launch an RCS marketing test campaign, Listrak has seen firsthand how impactful the channel can be, driving more than double the revenue per send compared to SMS/MMS for the retail brand. Read the press release for more details.
Today, marketers can begin implementing RCS across both Android and iPhone devices as part of their mobile messaging strategy. One of the first steps in getting started is establishing a verified Sender Agent, which creates a trusted, branded presence directly within the messaging inbox.
RCS is an interactive communications channel that enhances traditional SMS and MMS with richer, more engaging messaging experiences delivered directly within a phone’s native messaging app. Since Apple introduced RCS support with iOS 18 in fall 2024, adoption has accelerated significantly, with RCS now reaching more than a billion monthly active users worldwide.
For brands and retailers, RCS Business Messaging (RBM) makes it possible to deliver interactive experiences such as:
Another key advantage of RCS is verified branded messaging through the Sender Agent, allowing customers to more easily recognize and trust who they are engaging with. This added layer of identity helps create more trusted customer experiences while driving stronger engagement and conversion opportunities.
Importantly, RCS is not replacing SMS and MMS. Instead, it enhances existing messaging strategies by adding richer experiences for supported users while SMS fallback continues to ensure broad reach across devices and carriers.
Listrak is already seeing impressive returns of more than $1 per RCS message sent, demonstrating the channel’s ability to drive engagement and revenue across the customer lifecycle.
For many brands, RCS works best as a complement to existing SMS and MMS programs:
Brands do not need a fully mature RCS strategy to begin seeing value. Establishing a verified Sender Agent and testing RCS within select campaigns or lifecycle moments can be an effective first step toward creating richer customer experiences.
At Listrak, we help brands bring RCS to market through Sender Agent setup, campaign strategy, and cross-channel orchestration. Current Listrak clients should connect with their Account Manager to learn more about establishing their Sender Agent and preparing for RCS activation.
