RCS to SMS Fallback: How It Works and How to Set It Up
Short answer: RCS to SMS fallback means sending a message as RCS first and, if the recipient cannot receive RCS or the message is not delivered, sending an SMS instead. It exists because RCS only works on supported phones and networks. The fallback needs a plain-text SMS version of the content, a registered SMS template, and a rule for when to switch.
This guide covers when fallback triggers, how to write the SMS version of a rich card and how to test. For the general idea of switching channels, see omnichannel fallback routing.
Last updated: 2 November 2026.
What triggers fallback
| Situation | RCS result | What fallback does |
|---|---|---|
| Phone or app does not support RCS | Not capable | Sends SMS at once |
| No data connection or phone off | Not delivered in time | Sends SMS after the wait time you set |
| Operator does not support business RCS | Not capable | Sends SMS |
| Message rejected or failed | Failed | Sends SMS |
| Delivered but not read | Delivered | Usually no fallback; decide if a follow-up is needed |
Setup steps
Write the SMS version first
Boil the rich card down to one clear line with a short link. Register it as an SMS template. See DLT template format.Build the RCS message
Use a verified agent, card and buttons. See RCS brand verification.Set the order and the wait time
RCS first, then SMS after a short wait if there is no delivery. Keep the wait short for time-sensitive messages like OTPs.Avoid duplicates
Cancel the SMS if the RCS message is delivered, so customers do not get both.Test on devices and check reports
Send to RCS and non-RCS phones and compare in delivery reports.
Writing the SMS version
SMS has no buttons or images, so put the key fact and one link in the text. For example, a card with "Your order is out for delivery" and a Track button becomes "Acme: your order is out for delivery. Track: [link]". See RCS vs SMS for differences and RCS coverage in India for who can receive RCS.
RCS fallback questions
Is SMS fallback automatic for RCS?
Only if you configure it. Check your provider's settings and set the wait time and the SMS template.
Will customers get both RCS and SMS?
They should not. Cancel the SMS when the RCS message is delivered.
Do I need a separate DLT template for the SMS fallback?
Yes. The SMS is a normal SMS and needs a registered template.
How long should the fallback wait be?
Short for urgent messages, longer for non-urgent ones. Test with your own delivery data.
Can WhatsApp be part of the chain?
Yes. A chain can be RCS, then WhatsApp, then SMS, depending on opt-in and templates.
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