GSMA Finalizes RCS 4.0 Standard Introducing Native Video Calling and Enhanced Media Features

• March 27, 2026

The GSMA Association has officially completed the development of the latest version of the Rich Communication Services (RCS) Universal Profile, designated as RCS 4.0. This updated communication protocol introduces several significant improvements, with the most notable being the integration of native video calling capabilities within the messaging environment.

Traditionally, video calls have required users to switch between messaging apps and dedicated video conferencing platforms. With RCS 4.0, the standard now enables users to initiate and conduct video calls directly from the chat interface. This seamless integration aims to streamline the user experience by eliminating the need to toggle between separate applications during multimedia communications.

Enhanced Messaging Experience Through Text and Media Innovations

Beyond video calling, RCS 4.0 incorporates advanced support for enriched text formatting. This native capability facilitates a more dynamic and expressive communication style within messages, allowing users to utilize a broader range of text presentation options. Enhanced formatting could include variations in fonts, colors, styles, and possibly other display attributes—though specific details were not disclosed.

Additionally, the updated standard focuses on refining the exchange of media files. Improved algorithms support more efficient and reliable sharing of photos, videos, and other multimedia content. These enhancements are designed to optimize the transmission experience and maintain higher quality across diverse network conditions.

The GSMA’s completion of RCS 4.0 reflects an ongoing effort to advance mobile communication standards beyond basic SMS. By embedding video calling and richer media support directly into the RCS protocol, the association aims to provide carriers and device manufacturers with tools to offer a more integrated and feature-rich messaging service.

Details concerning rollout timelines, device compatibility, and carrier adoption plans for RCS 4.0 have not been publicly disclosed. However, the standard’s approval marks a critical step toward evolving the messaging landscape and potentially reducing reliance on third-party communication apps.

As mobile messaging continues to be a central component of digital interaction, the GSMA’s move to modernize RCS with video and enhanced multimedia features may further encourage industry-wide adoption of the Universal Profile, fostering a more unified and versatile communication ecosystem.

The GSMA announces RCS 4.0 Universal Profile with built-in video calling, richer text formatting, and improved media sharing capabilities.