> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.messageflow.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.messageflow.com/rcs/first-steps/message-types-and-components.md).

# Message Types and Components

The RCS channel enables interaction with users through a variety of message types – from simple text to advanced, interactive formats.

The following specification reflects standards used by major global operators.

***

## RCS Basic / Lite

The simplest message type – equivalent to a verified SMS, but with all the key advantages of the RCS channel.

It contains only text and is ideal for short, straightforward communications.

<figure><img src="/files/Ct29ZVT0tIcxqZ5VDLNE" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Main advantages:**

* **Sender verification:** Messages are sent from a verified Brand Agent profile, increasing trust and authenticity.
* **Analytics:** Access to delivery and read receipts, enabling detailed performance tracking.

**Technical specifications:**

* **Message content:** Up to 160 UTF-8 characters (emoji characters count as two).
* **Limitations:** No suggestion buttons allowed.

***

## RCS Single Message / Rich RCS

An extended format that adds rich media and interactive buttons to the “Basic” message.

This is a key message type – every two-way conversation (Chat) starts with a Single Message and becomes an active chat once the recipient replies.

Rich RCS messages can include more advanced components such as Rich Cards or Card Carousels, serving as a single, expanded communication or as an entry point for further interaction.

### Text Message (Single Text)

An extended text message with optional buttons.

* **Message content:** Up to 1,000 UTF-8 characters (emoji characters count as two).
* **Suggestions (buttons):** Up to 11 general suggestions (e.g., action buttons).

<figure><img src="/files/wnFKbYOsZ3BwfCh3GK6f" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Video (Standalone Message)

Used to send a video file as a standalone message.

* **Aspect ratio:** 16:9 or 9:16
* **Maximum file size:** 20 MB
* **Supported formats:** h263, m4v, mp4, mpeg, mpeg4, webm

<figure><img src="/files/Cif7kNASCyOcCwRehRKJ" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Rich Card (Single Card)

A single, expanded card that can include an image, video, title, description, and interactive buttons.

<figure><img src="/files/UXcGIlmJWJ5p2vAA5byY" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Title:** up to 100 characters
* **Description:** up to 1,000 characters
* **Media:**
  * Images: GIF, JPG, JPEG, PNG – recommended max size 4 MB
  * Videos: h263, m4v, mp4, mpeg, mpeg4, webm – max size 5 MB
* **Suggested resolution (horizontal media):** 770 × 335 px (recommended file size 40–100 kB)
* **Safe area (content padding):**
  * 20 px top
  * 20 px bottom
  * 180 px left
  * 180 px right

### Card Carousel

A horizontally scrollable set of multiple Rich Cards.

<figure><img src="/files/dxnmA6RqJuPFZYf70geP" alt="" width="360"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Maximum number of cards:** 4
* **Single card specifications:**
  * Title: up to 100 characters
  * Description: up to 1,000 characters
* **Recommended for better readability:**
  * Title: up to 24 characters
  * Description: up to 77 characters
* **Media aspect ratio:** 4:3
* **Suggested resolution:** 605 × 452 px (recommended file size 40–100 kB)
* **Safe area (content padding):**
  * 121 px top
  * 121 px bottom
  * 75 px left
  * 75 px right

### File Message (Audio / PDF)

Used to send an audio file or PDF document.

* **Audio:**
  * Max file size: 20 MB
  * Supported formats: MP3, WAV
* **Document (PDF):**
  * Recommended max file size: 5 MB

### Map (Location Link)

Used to send a location pin or map link.

* **Location:** Requires GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude).

<figure><img src="/files/PO5eNJL5gQUMur4gaHDw" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

## Suggestions (Buttons)

Suggestions are not a standalone message type (like Rich Cards or Video) but a feature that can be added to most components (except RCS Basic).

**Functions:** Buttons can perform one of the following actions:

* Open a webpage
* Dial a phone number
* Open a map (requires GPS coordinates)
* Send a text reply

**Technical limits:**

* Maximum number: 11
* Button text: Up to 25 characters

<figure><img src="/files/LxYdTwkRPrFG8XJYPOTi" alt="" width="360"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

## Chat RCS / Conversation

This is the most advanced communication mode in the RCS channel, transforming one-way notifications into a real-time, two-way dialogue.

Unlike traditional channels, Chat RCS enables the entire customer service or sales process to be conducted directly within the messaging app on the user's phone.

<figure><img src="/files/aUTi5h9tq3poQuPjqwHZ" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Key Features of Conversational Communication in RCS:

* **24-Hour Window:** When a user replies to your message or clicks a button, a so-called conversation window opens. During this time, you can exchange an unlimited number of messages with them for free (or within a single session rate), fostering free-flowing dialogue.
* **Automation and Bots:** You can create advanced scenarios (chatbots) that automatically handle typical inquiries (e.g., order status, appointment scheduling), relieving your team.
* **Seamless Handover to Consultant:** If necessary, the conversation can be smoothly transferred to a live agent while maintaining the full conversation history.

Business Applications:

1. **Sales Support (Advisory):** Help customers choose a product, send carousels with recommendations, and answer availability questions – all in one thread.
2. **Post-Sales Service:** Enable complaint reporting, delivery date changes, or invoice downloading without the need to log in to a website or call a hotline.
3. **Building Loyalty:** Engage recipients through interactive polls, quizzes, or contests that build brand attachment.