RCS Format, File Size, and Media Dimension Specifications
RCS messaging promises a richer, app-like experience over standard SMS — but only if your media actually renders correctly. A mistimed file size or wrong aspect ratio can silently break the entire message on certain devices.
Why Specifications Matter More Than They Seem
Unlike email, where a slightly oversized image just loads a bit slower, RCS messages that violate carrier or device specs may fail to deliver entirely, or fall back to plain SMS — stripping out the rich media you built the campaign around.
Core Specifications to Follow
Image formats: JPEG and PNG are broadly supported; keep file sizes under 1MB per image for reliable delivery.
Video formats: MP4 (H.264) is the safest choice; most implementations cap video at around 10MB.
Card and carousel dimensions: Rich cards typically perform best at a 1.51:1 or 1:1 aspect ratio — check your specific RCS provider’s card template requirements before finalizing creative.
Button and text limits: Suggested replies and action buttons usually cap around 25 characters — longer text often truncates awkwardly.
Practical Testing Advice
Always test RCS creative across multiple Android device sizes before a full send. Fallback behavior (RCS to SMS/MMS) should be tested too, so customers on non-RCS devices still receive a coherent message rather than a broken one.
Key Takeaway
RCS’s visual richness is a genuine advantage over plain SMS, but only when technical specifications are respected. Treat media prep as part of campaign QA, not an afterthought.
Need help getting RCS creative delivery-ready? MDS validates media specs automatically before your campaigns go live.
