Turning off RCS stops RCS features in Google Messages. Messages may still go as SMS or MMS if that fallback is available and enabled, but delivery is not guaranteed and the messages no longer have RCS features. Google also says you can be removed from RCS group chats if you leave RCS off for 30 days.
What changes when RCS is off?
RCS uses Wi-Fi or mobile data and can provide typing indicators, read receipts and high-resolution file sharing. Google says deactivating RCS suspends these RCS features; it does not mean that SMS, MMS or iMessage as a whole is turned off. Availability and behavior depend on the device, carrier and region.
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Turning off RCS is not documented as deleting your message history. Google’s guidance describes suspending RCS features and potential group-chat removal, not erasing previous messages.
Will messages still send as texts?
In Google Messages, a message may be sent as SMS or MMS when RCS is unavailable if automatic resend is enabled. This is a separate message path, not an RCS message, so RCS features do not carry over. SMS/MMS availability and any charges depend on your carrier and plan.
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| What happens next | Can the message be sent? | RCS features | Group-chat implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMS/MMS fallback is available and enabled | It may send as SMS or MMS; delivery is not guaranteed. | Typing indicators, read receipts and other RCS features do not apply. | Google warns that turning RCS on and off can affect group-chat membership. |
| Fallback is unavailable or disabled | The message may not send successfully. | RCS features are unavailable while RCS is off. | Google’s 30-day group-chat rule applies to its RCS deactivation guidance. |
Will turning off RCS remove you from group chats?
Google’s deactivation portal states: “Deactivating RCS chat will suspend RCS features. You will be removed from all RCS group chats if RCS is not turned back on within 30 days.” That is Google’s stated rule; do not assume the same timing applies to every carrier or platform.
How to turn RCS off or restore it in Google Messages
On the phone
- Open Google Messages.
- Tap your profile picture or initials, then tap Messages settings.
- Tap RCS chats and turn off RCS chats. Labels can vary slightly by app version.
To restore RCS, return to Messages settings → RCS chats and turn RCS chats on. If you are trying to preserve access to RCS group chats, Google says to turn RCS back on within 30 days.
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- BATTERY LIFE: Long-lasting 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging technology delivers hours of power in minutes.
If you no longer have the old phone
Use Google’s RCS deactivation portal and verify your phone number with the six-digit code. Google provides this option for situations such as a lost or broken device or a switch to another phone or messaging app.
What about RCS on iPhone?
Apple supports RCS on eligible iPhones when the carrier and device support it. Apple lists delivery receipts, read receipts and typing indicators among the available RCS capabilities. Apple’s guidance does not specify what happens to an existing RCS group conversation after RCS is disabled, so Google’s 30-day rule should not be applied to iPhone conversations.
Quick Recap
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Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Official guidance
- Google Messages: Turn on RCS chats in Google Messages
- Google Messages: Troubleshoot RCS chat
- Google Messages: RCS chats by Google FAQ
- Apple Support: Turn on RCS messaging on your iPhone
- Google Messages: Learn about Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging
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