Since its invention in the 1980s, the history of SMS (Short Message Service) has been near 3 decades. It still plays an important role in today's world, both for business and personal.
With the development of technology, more types of messages have been invented. In this article, we'll introduce the two main new types of phone messages that will lead the future: MMS(Multimedia Messaging Service) and RCS(Rich Communication Service).
MMS
Definition
Multimedia Messaging Service is introduced around 2002. It can deliver a variety of media, including a video clip, one image, a slideshow of multiple images, audio, GIFs, and QR codes. There is no standard limit to MMS messages. The maximum size of an MMS message depends on the carrier and the receiving capability of the device. Generally, 300 KB is often the largest size most carriers can reliably handle.
Examples
If you are selling a product, you can showcase it in a video and send it to potential prospects.
You can also use an MMS message to promote your product with an elegant picture.
Send a QR code to give store navigation to your customers.
Advantages
1. Vivid pictures and short videos are much vivid than text. People react more to visual stimulation. For promoting effect, MMS messages are a better choice than SMS messages.
2. A picture is better than a thousand words. There is 160 characters limit to an SMS message, while you can use an image to demonstrate your product with an MMS message which contains much more information.
3. You can provide more services to your customers with MMS messages. QR code has many functions, for example, making payment, navigation, opening a website, filling a sheet, doing a survey, etc.
4. To young generations like the Z generation, who grow up with TikTok and Snapchat and are used to watching videos and pictures to receive the message, MMS messages are more embraced by this group of customers.
RCS
Definition
Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a communication protocol that can provide a richer messaging experience to the users. Advanced from MMS, an RCS message can support more media types and more functions.
The RCS concept was formed in 2007 and adopted by GSMA in 2008.
Examples
Send RCS messages with your customized brand image.
Improve your brand's authentication by setting a verified badge in the RCS message so that your customers can assure it.
Send a text message, MMS message, various types of files together through RCS messages.
Set CTA buttons to let your customers engage more.
And also, your customers can reply to your RCS messages directly.
See the below picture to get a clear understanding.
Advantages
With multiple advanced functions, RCS is a strong messaging tool that can better serve the business and people.
1. Rich communication. RCS message supports text, audio, video, GIFs, etc. Rich communication is designed to catch people's eyeballs and improve customer engagement.
2. Plan B mechanism. If a device does not support an RCS message, it will automatically turn into MMS or SMS message and be delivered successfully. According to Wikipedia, in early 2020, RCS was estimated available from 88 operators in 59 countries with approximately 390 million users per month.
3. Better customer engagement. The purchase rate is much higher if customers are asked in real-time. RCS message can provide a CTA button to purchase directly.
4. Data monitoring. You will know the clicking rate and open rate of an RCS message. Analyzing the data, you can better design your RCS campaign.
5. Better brand building. Through RCS messages, your customers will get a better and vivid understanding of your brand, products, and services. They will also know better about your culture and values. As a showcase and serving tool, RCS messaging is truly helpful.
Conclusion
The above is a simple introduction to MMS and RCS messages. Some people may wonder, does that mean that SMS messages will disappear one day?
The answer is absolutely no.
Why?
Because each type of massage has its advantages, the SMS message is still a powerful communication tool on the market. People and businesses use it for its low-cost and easy editing features, with a high reach and open rate. Besides, there is certain information that is better conveyed through SMS messages.
Not all types of information are best conveyed in fancy forms like MMS and RCS messages.
In the future, these three types of messages will exist together, fulfill different needs of the market.
As a merchant, you shall choose a messaging tool that can best serve your business. Or, all of them.
There is only one key question to think about: What do you want to achieve with these messaging tools?
