RCS Chat, Google’s vision for the future of messaging, is widely available around the globe. Rather than waiting on carriers to adopt the RCS standard, Google took matters into its own hands and enabled RCS Chat for all phones regardless of carrier — you just have to use its Messages app. If your phone is supported, here’s how to enable RCS in Google Messages.
Products used in this guide
- Google’s latest phone: Google Pixel 5 ($700 at Amazon)
- The best messaging app: Google Messages (Free at Google Play)
How to enable RCS in Google Messages
Open Google Messages on your Android phone.
- If you don’t have the app, you can download it for free.
Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner.
Tap Settings.
Tap Chat features
Enter your phone number.
Tap Continue.
That’s all there is to it! It may take several seconds for Google Messages to verify your phone number, but once it’s completed, your status should change from “Setting up” to “Connected.” When you message someone else who also has RCS enabled, the chat will automatically offer the enhanced messaging experience.
What countries is RCS Chat available?
Google began rolling out RCS Chat to select countries including France, the UK, the U.S., and Spain back in June 2019. As of November 2020, Google has completed its rollout and says that RCS is now available in all countries across the globe. Thanks to RCS being available through Google Messages, it means you can use any of the best Android phones and aren’t limited to just using a Pixel.
Google’s latest phone
Google Pixel 5
$700 at Amazon
$700 at Best Buy
$699 at B&H Photo
Get the best camera in a comfortable form factor
Google may have stepped out of the flagship game, but the Pixel 5 is still one of the best phones of the year. This phone’s camera game is on point, and you get the best that stock Android has to offer in a sleek design.
The best messaging app
Google Messages
Free at Google Play
The all-in-one messaging app
From RCS Chat messaging to just your standard texts, Google Messages can handle all of your messaging needs. Plus, with RCS you get some extra features that you won’t find anywhere else.
