Vonage, a global leader in cloud communications and part of Ericsson, has unveiled its new Rich Communications Services (RCS) solution through the Vonage Messages API and a low-code turnkey option. This innovative platform aims to transform how businesses interact with customers by providing richer, more secure, and engaging real-time communication capabilities.
Vonage RCS introduces a suite of features designed to enhance business messaging. It allows businesses to send branded, encrypted RCS messages with company names and logos, ensuring secure communications and building customer trust. This feature also helps protect against fraud and other security threats.
The new service supports a range of rich content and functionalities, including video, images, and audio files, delivered directly to customers. Practical features such as typing indicators, interactive carousels, rich cards, location sharing, and suggested replies are also included, making interactions more dynamic and personalised.
RCS is poised to significantly impact conversational marketing and commerce. Businesses can use Vonage RCS to streamline customer service, boost sales, and improve marketing campaign effectiveness through engaging two-way conversations. The platform integrates with Vonage Conversational Commerce, powered by Jumper.ai, which leverages AI-powered bots and live chat to facilitate real-time interactions. Research indicates that consumers are 72% more likely to purchase online when they can ask questions in real time, and 35 times more likely to read RCS messages compared to emails.
Colin Brown, Head of API Product Management at Vonage, highlighted the benefits of Vonage RCS, stating, “We are excited to launch Vonage RCS, which enables businesses to deliver more engaging content directly to users’ preferred messaging apps. As customer expectations evolve, businesses need more interactive and immersive communication solutions. Vonage RCS provides a superior way to enhance customer interactions and satisfaction, helping companies stay ahead in the competitive landscape of digital communication.”
Dan Garner, Chief Product Officer at Confer With, praised the new service, noting, “Our live one-to-one video shopping platform transforms online retail experiences, and RCS adds a valuable interactive component. This integration provides a seamless, app-like experience that enhances customer engagement through marketing and an in-store QR code generator.”
Charlotte Palfrey, Senior Analyst at Omdia, commented on the impact of Vonage RCS, “Vonage’s RCS solution offers advanced messaging features such as interactive menus and media content, allowing brands to send verified messages and improve customer engagement. This will help businesses create memorable customer experiences and build lasting loyalty.”
The RCS market is anticipated to grow significantly, with projections indicating an increase from USD $317 million in 2024 to $4.2 billion by 2029. This growth is driven by rising mobile data consumption and the expansion of high-speed mobile networks.
Vonage RCS is now available in over ten countries across EMEA, North America, and South America. It can be integrated into business applications using the Vonage Messages API for customised conversations. The service will be showcased at CASA24 in Amsterdam, Digital X in Cologne, and in Munich and Berlin later this year.
For more information, visit Vonage’s website.