To switch from SMS to RCS on an iPhone, the key requirements are that the iPhone must be running iOS 18 or later, and the mobile carrier must support RCS messaging. The steps are:
- Make sure the iPhone is updated to iOS 18 or later in Settings > General > Software Update.
- Confirm carrier support for RCS by going to Settings > General > About > Carrier and checking if "Voice, SMS & RCS" is listed.
- Go to Settings, scroll down and tap Apps.
- Tap Messages.
- Tap RCS Messaging under the Text Messaging section.
- Toggle RCS Messaging on to enable it.
- After enabling, new messages to other RCS-capable devices will use the enhanced RCS features like read receipts and typing indicators.
Note: Existing SMS conversations will not automatically convert to RCS; only new conversations or messages with RCS-supported contacts will use it. The messages will still show in green bubbles for Android users despite using RCS features. This new feature is supported by major U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, but availability may vary by region and carrier. Summary:
Step| Action
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1| Update to iOS 18 or later
2| Check carrier supports RCS
3| Open Settings > Apps > Messages
4| Tap RCS Messaging
5| Toggle on RCS Messaging
This will switch messaging from traditional SMS to RCS on the iPhone when messaging supported contacts over compatible carriers and networks.
