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Apple RCS Messaging in United Kingdom

Overview​

Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging brings enhanced messaging features to iPhone users in United Kingdom. This guide covers all mobile carriers and their RCS support status for Apple devices in United Kingdom.

πŸ“– Learn what RCS Messaging is β†’

RCS Support Status in United Kingdom​

Apple introduced RCS support with iOS 18, allowing iPhone users in United Kingdom to experience enhanced messaging with Android users and other RCS-enabled devices.

Supported Carriers in United Kingdom​

The following mobile operators in United Kingdom currently support Apple RCS messaging:

BT​

βœ… RCS Messaging: Supported

BT customers in United Kingdom can enjoy full RCS messaging capabilities on their iPhone devices. This includes all RCS features when messaging with other RCS-enabled devices.

EE​

βœ… RCS Messaging: Supported

EE customers in United Kingdom can enjoy full RCS messaging capabilities on their iPhone devices. This includes all RCS features when messaging with other RCS-enabled devices.

Carriers Without RCS Support​

The following carriers in United Kingdom do not currently offer RCS messaging for Apple devices:

3​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

giffgaff​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

ID Mobile​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

O2​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

Sky​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

Talk Mobile​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

Tesco Mobile​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

Virgin Mobile UK​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

Vodafone​

❌ RCS Messaging: Not Supported

How to Enable RCS on iPhone in United Kingdom​

  1. Ensure your iPhone is updated to iOS 18 or later
  2. Go to Settings > Messages
  3. Toggle on "RCS Messaging"
  4. Verify your carrier supports RCS (see list above)

Frequently Asked Questions​

When will more carriers in United Kingdom support RCS?​

Carrier support for RCS is expanding. Check back regularly for updates on new carrier support.

Do I need a special plan for RCS in United Kingdom?​

Most carriers include RCS in standard messaging plans, but check with your specific carrier for details.

Can I use RCS when roaming from United Kingdom?​

RCS availability while roaming depends on both your home carrier and the roaming partner's support.

Last updated: 2026-01-09 Source: Apple Support