Google RCS for Business vs M-Target RCS for Business

Google RCS for Business lets brands send rich-media messages to customers on Android and iOS, including read receipts, analytics, and a Verified icon. Agents can send one-way notifications or support two-way conversations about transactions, customer service, promotions, and other business needs. Rich cards, media, and suggested interactions can guide users through conversations. Agents send messages through an API using HTTP requests with JSON payloads; configured webhooks deliver user messages and events. Agent logic can use a natural language understanding module such as Dialogflow to choose responses. Google lists one-time password, transactional, promotional, and multi-use agent categories, with rules that may vary by country. Businesses typically work with messaging partners to build and maintain agents, and launches require brand verification and approval by Google, carriers, or both. Carriers set rates through their rate cards; billing methods differ for conversational and non-conversational messages, and no fixed public price is listed. Unsupported devices receive a 404 response, so agents should use another channel such as SMS. RBM does not provide end-to-end encryption, and Google says it is not HIPAA compliant.

M-Target RCS for Business sends interactive messages through RCS, which is built into compatible smartphones. Recipients do not need to install an app. Messages can contain images, videos, documents, itineraries, payment options, action buttons and carousels, with personalization based on customer data and behavior. Verified sender identities are intended to reinforce customer trust. Campaigns support two-way messaging, delivery and read receipts, and real-time tracking of opens, link clicks and responses to interactive buttons. Businesses can connect through web access, an API or CRM connectors including Salesforce, Adobe Campaign and Selligent. The API is described for automating and personalizing high-volume sends. Before the first campaign, a company must register an RCS Agent with mobile operators; M-Target says it can help. A simple short campaign is estimated to take at least one week, while longer or more complex campaigns may take three to four weeks. Compatible devices and operator support are required, with SMS fallback in some cases.