What Is the Difference Between RCS Basic and Premium Messages

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next generation of mobile messaging - a modern evolution of SMS. It enables interactive, branded, and secure communication directly within users’ default messaging apps, complete with rich media, verified sender IDs, and call-to-action buttons.

But not all RCS messages are the same. Businesses can choose between RCS Basic and Premium messages, depending on the goal, audience, and experience they want to deliver. In this blog, we explain the difference and how to choose the right format for your use case.

RCS Basic Messages: Secure and Certified

RCS Basic messages are the closest equivalent to a secure, verified SMS - ideal for critical communications.

Key Features:

• Up to 160 characters of text

• Verified sender name with logo and description (up to 40 characters)

• End-to-end encryption for secure messaging

Use Cases:

• Banking & Finance
  Ideal for sending one-time passwords (OTPs), secure login verification codes, and transaction confirmations. Customers know the message is real, coming from a verified source.

• Logistics & Delivery
  Share delivery status, pickup confirmations, and rescheduling options securely. The RCS Basic format builds trust and keeps customers updated in real time.

RCS Premium Messages: Rich, Immersive Experiences

RCS Premium messages bring marketing to life with multimedia and interactive elements.

Key Features:

• Up to 500 characters of text

• Support for images, GIFs, videos, and carousels

• Interactive buttons (e.g. “Buy Now”, “Get Discount”, “Show Map”)

• Quick replies and call-to-action support

• Fully branded verified sender profiles

Use Cases:

• Retail & eCommerce
  Send immersive promotional messages with product images, special offers, or personalized coupons. Help users add items to cart or visit your website directly from the message.

• Travel & Hospitality
  Share boarding passes, check-in updates, or promote hotel upgrades and add-ons. With Google Wallet integration, travelers can save passes straight to their phone.

• Events & Entertainment
  Announce new ticket sales, showtimes, or VIP experiences - with video teasers and one-click bookings.

RCS Basic vs Premium Messages: A Quick Comparison

LINK Mobility Is Your RCS Messaging Partner

As an official Google RCS Messaging Partner, LINK Mobility makes it easy to get started with both RCS Basic and Premium messages. We handle the onboarding, documentation, and agent creation process to ensure a smooth launch and provide fallback SMS to ensure every message is delivered.

In 2025, LINK Mobility was named Best RCS Provider in Europe by Juniper Research, recognizing our leadership in omnichannel mobile communication.