Communication Tools SMS, RCS & WhatsApp

In today’s digital world, we have many ways to communicate with people. Three popular options are SMS, RCS, and WhatsApp. But what do these terms mean? How are they different? And which one is best for your business or personal use?

In this blog, we will explain the differences between SMS, RCS, and WhatsApp in very simple language. We’ll also share facts and important points to help you understand which platform suits your needs.

1. What is SMS? (Short Message Service)

SMS is the most basic form of text messaging.

• It works on all mobile phones (even without internet).
• You can send up to 160 characters in a single message.
• No pictures, videos, or rich content allowed.
• Works using your mobile network (not internet).

Pros:

• Works on every mobile phone
• Doesn’t need internet
• Great for OTPs and alerts

Cons:

• No media or buttons
• Limited character count
• Can look plain and simple

Fact: SMS has over 90% open rate. People check SMS faster than email.

2. What is RCS? (Rich Communication Services)

RCS is like an upgraded version of SMS. It adds more features and works on modern smartphones.

• Supports images, videos, buttons, and chat features
• Requires internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data)
• Works through the phone’s default messaging app (on supported devices)
• Google and Android support RCS; Apple does not support it yet

Pros:

• Rich media experience (like WhatsApp)
• No need to install an app if supported on your phone
• Verified sender identity (good for businesses)

Cons:

• Not supported on all phones or carriers
• Needs internet
• Not widely adopted like WhatsApp

Fact: RCS is sometimes called “SMS 2.0” and is backed by Google to compete with apps like WhatsApp.

3. What is WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is a free messaging app used by billions of people worldwide.

• Works on smartphones via internet
• Send texts, photos, videos, documents, voice messages
• Supports video calls, groups, status updates
• Offers WhatsApp Business API for companies

Pros:

• Widely used in India and globally
• Feature-rich: media, calls, payments, etc.
• High engagement with customers

Cons:

• Needs internet
• Messages can get buried in chats
• Business API setup is more complex than SMS

Fact: India has over 500 million WhatsApp users. Most smartphone users check WhatsApp daily.

4. Key Differences Between SMS, RCS, and WhatsApp

Comparison Table

5. Which One Should You Use?

• Use SMS if:
  • You want to reach everyone (even feature phone users)
  • You are sending OTPs, reminders, or urgent alerts
  • You want a simple, legal way to send bulk messages (with DLT compliance)
• Use RCS if:
  • Your target users use Android smartphones
  • You want rich messaging like images, buttons, and branding
  • You want to offer a better user experience than plain SMS
• Use WhatsApp if:
  • Your customers already use WhatsApp
  • You want two-way communication (chat)
  • You want to send product images, catalogs, or collect feedback
  • You can manage the business API setup (or take help from providers like Arihant Global)

6. Final Thoughts

Each platform has its own strengths. SMS is reliable and universal. RCS brings modern features but is still growing. WhatsApp offers rich, interactive communication and is extremely popular.

If you want to reach your customers smartly, you may even use a combination:

• SMS for urgent alerts
• WhatsApp for promotions and support
• RCS for modern Android users

At Arihant Global Services India Pvt. Ltd., we help businesses use all these channels in the right way. Whether it’s setting up DLT for SMS, using WhatsApp Business API, or exploring RCS, we’re here to guide you.

📞 Want Help Choosing the Right Platform?

Get in touch with Arihant Global today!

Source: Online and Human Made by AGSIPL