What is RCS and how is it different from SMS and WhatsApp?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next-generation successor to SMS, built into Android's native Messages app. Unlike SMS, it supports images, rich cards, action buttons, read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media and suggested replies. Unlike WhatsApp, it requires no app download. An RCS messaging service enables businesses to use verified sender branding, interactive messages and read receipt analytics. Its main limitation is that it works only on supported Android devices, while other users receive SMS fallback.