Solutions to Fix RCS Not Working on iOS 18

February 7, 2025
Fix iPhone Issues

Rich Communication Services (RCS) has revolutionized messaging by offering enhanced features such as read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media sharing, and more. However, with the release of iOS 18, some users have reported issues with RCS functionality. If you are experiencing problems with RCS not working on iOS 18, this guide will help you understand the issue and provide effective solutions to restore seamless messaging.
rcs not working on ios 18

1. What is RCS on iOS 18?

RCS is the messaging protocol of the next generation, which brings the experience of classic SMS communications up to the standards of the modern day. Unlike SMS, RCS allows users to send larger files, use group chats, and enjoy end-to-end encryption on supported platforms. On iOS 18, RCS integration offers compatibility with Android devices and other RCS-enabled services, bridging the gap between platforms. To use RCS, your carrier and messaging app must support it, and your settings must be properly configured.

2. Instructions on how to enable or activate RCS on iOS 18

If RCS is not enabled on your iOS 18 device, follow these steps to set it up:

  • Ensure Carrier Support

Visit your carrier’s website or contact customer support to confirm whether your carrier supports RCS or not.

  • Update iOS and Carrier Settings

To check whether you are using the lastest version of iOS 18, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Update if any version is available.
update to ios 18 1

Head over to Settings > General > About to see if there have been any changes to your carrier settings.
iphone about

  • Enable RCS in Messaging App

Open your default messaging app > Go to Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging and toggle on it.
turn on rcs

  • Verify Network Connection

Make sure your iOS device is linked to a reliable mobile network or Wi-Fi hotspot.
iPhone choose different wifi network

    3. Solutions to Fix the RCS Not Working Issue on iOS 18

    If RCS is not functioning despite being enabled, try these troubleshooting steps:

    • Restart Your Device

    Restarting your iPhone can resolve minor software glitches: Hold down the power button, slide to power off, and turn it back on.

    • Check Network Connectivity

    Ensure your device has a stable internet connection. Attempt to determine whether the problem is still there by switching between mobile data and Wi-Fi.

    • Clear Messaging App Cache

    Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and locate your messaging app. Select Offload App or Clear Cache if the option is available.
    Check iPhone storage

    • Disable and Re-enable RCS

    Navigate to the messaging app settings and turn off RCS or Chat Features, wait a few minutes and turn it back on.
    turn off rcs

    • Re-register iMessages

    Go to Settings > Apps > iMessage > Turn on and turn on your account iMessages.
    re-register imessages

    • Check for App Updates

    Open the App Store, search for your messaging app, and update it if necessary.
    app store update apps

    • Reset Network Settings

    To reset network settings, navigate to Settings > General > Reset, but keep in mind that doing so will remove any saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
    iPhone Reset Network Settings

    4. Advanced Fix iOS 18 RCS Not Working with AimerLab FixMate

    For persistent RCS issues that cannot be resolved through standard troubleshooting, AimerLab FixMate offers an advanced solution. AimerLab FixMate is a professional iOS repair tool designed to resolve various system issues, including app crashes, update failures, and communication problems like RCS not working. It offers user-friendly features like Standard Repair to fix issues without data loss, supports all iOS versions, and ensures quick, reliable solutions with minimal effort.

    Here are the steps to fix iOS RCS not working issue with AimerLab FixMate:

    Step 1: Download the FixMate tool on your Windows or Mac, then follow the installation instructions on your computer.


    Step 2:  Use a USB cable to connect your iOS 18 device to your computer, then open FixMate and tap Start on the interface, next select Standard Repair for non-invasive fixes that preserve your data.
    FixMate Choose Standard Repair

    Step 3: FixMate will automatically identify and direct you to download the appropriate iOS firmware, click “Repair” to proceed with the procedure.
    download iPad firmware
    Step 4: When the firmware package download is done, click Start Repair and Fixmate will begin fix the RCS not working and any other issues on your device.
    Standard Repair in Process
    Step 5: Once completed, your device will restart, and RCS functionality should be restored.
    Standard Repair Completed

    5. Conclusion

    RCS enhances the messaging experience, but encountering issues on iOS 18 can be frustrating. You can fix the majority of RCS-related issues by following the instructions in this guide. For more complex issues, AimerLab FixMate provides a reliable and efficient solution. Its user-friendly interface and advanced repair capabilities make it the ultimate tool for fixing iOS-related issues. Restore your RCS functionality today with AimerLab FixMate for a seamless messaging experience.