VodafoneThree signs agreement with Google to bring Rich Communication Services (RCS) capabilities to non-Android devices

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Press Office,

VodafoneThree has announced a new wholesale agreement with Google to expand Rich Communication Services (RCS) to non-Android devices on consumer price plans from Spring 2027.

The agreement will extend RCS to more customers on VodafoneThree’s brands, providing a richer and more interactive experience directly through customers’ existing messaging inbox.

RCS delivers advanced mobile messaging and branded two-way business communication capabilities natively, without requiring an additional app download. Combining carrier-backed verification, encryption in transit, and the speed and ubiquity of SMS with the richness of a mobile app, it offers:

  • Branded, carrier-verified business profiles that build customer trust and reduce spam or phishing risks.
  • Interactive two-way engagement, including suggested replies, rich cards, and seamless conversational customer support.
  • The ability to share high-quality images, videos and other media.
  • Read receipts and typing indicators.
  • Richer group conversations.

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As part of the agreement, Vodafone and VOXI customers with compatible devices across consumer price plans, pay-as-you-go, and SIM-only price plans will access the service. RCS also unlocks new enterprise opportunities through branded, interactive campaigns for business customers. Meanwhile, dedicated enterprise capabilities and RCS for Business tools will be expanded to Vodafone Business compatible devices at a later date. The service is already active for Three customers.

We’re pleased to be extending our partnership with Google to bring RCS to more of our customers. Our focus is on making richer and more interactive messaging available across a broader range of devices, while creating new opportunities for businesses to engage with their customers in a trusted and interactive manner.

Snehal Bhudia, Wholesale MVNOs & Carrier Services Director, VodafoneThree

We are thrilled to collaborate with VodafoneThree to bring modern RCS messaging capabilities to even more users. This expanded partnership represents a significant step forward in offering seamless, feature-rich communication experiences across all devices and will deliver a trusted messaging environment for even more mobile users across the UK.

Hugo Somersham-Jones, Head of RCS & Connectivity Partnerships EMEA, Google

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About VodafoneThree

VodafoneThree is the UK's largest mobile network operator serving the fixed and mobile market, formed following the merger of Vodafone UK and Three UK in June 2025.

Through an unprecedented £11 billion investment, VodafoneThree will build the UK's best network. The network will deliver reliable, quality connectivity to all nations and regions, creating as many as 13,000 jobs and laying a digital foundation for the country's growth ambitions.

VodafoneThree is the only mobile network operator with a fully funded, regulated and guaranteed network build plan, reaching 99% 5G Standalone population coverage by 2030 and 99.96% by 2034. From big cities to small towns, and everywhere in between, the company's mission is to build the UK's best network.

VodafoneThree encompasses all businesses and assets, including Vodafone UK, Three UK, VOXI Mobile, SMARTY and Talkmobile.

For more information, visit:

www.vodafonethree.com

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