RCS and WhatsApp both upgrade business messaging beyond plain SMS, with cards, buttons, and media. But they aren't interchangeable.
What is RCS?
Rich Communication Services is the successor to SMS, built into the native messaging app on Android. No app install — it works in the default messages inbox.
What WhatsApp offers
A dedicated app with enormous global reach, end-to-end encryption, and a mature business platform of templates, campaigns, and inboxes.
How to choose
- Reach: WhatsApp dominates in many regions; RCS depends on carrier and Android adoption.
- Audience: heavy Android, carrier-default users favor RCS.
- Features: WhatsApp's business ecosystem is more mature today.
Why not both?
The smartest strategy is often multi-channel — reach customers on WhatsApp and fall back to RCS or SMS where it performs better. Squalto supports WhatsApp and RCS from one platform.
Get started with Squalto
Squalto gives you everything you need to grow on the WhatsApp Business API — onboarding in minutes, AI-assisted templates, bulk campaigns, a shared team inbox, audience segmentation, and delivery analytics. Connect your number for free and send your first message today.
