RCS messaging
Also called: Rich Communication Services, RCS Business Messaging
RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the carrier-based successor to SMS that delivers branded messages with images, carousels, and tap-able buttons inside the phone's default messaging app, from a verified business sender.
RCS messaging in dealership marketing
For a dealership, RCS sits between SMS and WhatsApp: it reaches buyers who have not opted in on WhatsApp, but with richer content than a plain text message, such as a model carousel with a 'Book a test drive' button.
It is supported on most Android phones in India; where a handset does not support it, the message falls back to SMS. Sender verification and message approval are handled through the RCS platform rather than the SMS DLT system.
Related terms
- Messaging & Compliance
WhatsApp Business API
The WhatsApp Business API is Meta's programmatic interface that lets a business send and receive WhatsApp messages at scale through software, with approved message templates, automation, and multiple agents, as opposed to the free WhatsApp Business app designed for a single phone.
Read definition - Messaging & Compliance
Omnichannel communication
Omnichannel communication is the practice of running a customer conversation across several channels, such as SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, voice, and email, from one system, so that the customer gets a consistent message on whichever channel reaches them and the business sees the whole history in one place.
Read definition - Messaging & Compliance
Message template
A message template is the pre-approved wording of a business message, with placeholders for variable details such as the customer's name or appointment time, that must be registered on DLT for SMS or approved by Meta for WhatsApp before it can be sent.
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Where it applies
AutoSutra services where rcs messaging comes into play.
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