Singtel partners with Google to launch RCS services in Singapore

Singtel, in a pioneering move, has announced that it is partnering with Google to make Rich Communication Services (RCS) with Rich Business Messaging available to its business customers in Singapore. This marks the first time such services will be made available in the country.

The collaboration signifies an evolution in traditional SMS services, with Google's RCS enabling Android-operated smart devices to receive high-quality multimedia content and undertake tasks such as scheduling appointments or tracking deliveries.

Backed by Singtel's widespread network, RCS will integrate seamlessly into the native SMS application of Android smart devices without needing any user action. This opens opportunities for businesses from various sectors to engage their customers through enhanced, immersive mobile messaging, with RCS services expected to be available to Singtel's business customers in Singapore by the first quarter of 2024.

RCS operates without any user action, integrating seamlessly into the native SMS application of Android smart devices. As a result, businesses from various sectors can better engage their customers through a superior and immersive mobile messaging experience. The service is expected to go live for Singtel's business customers in the first quarter of 2024.

Mr Terence Lai Tuck Leong, the Vice President of Digitalisation, Products and Partnerships at Singtel Singapore, commented on the partnership, stating, "Through this collaboration, we're providing businesses a powerful communication tool that will help them provide richer content and improve the quality of their engagements with their customers, thereby strengthening their relationships. It will also support their innovation and digital transformation efforts in line with expectations from customers who are increasingly savvy and seeking smoother, frictionless interactions with their service providers."

Mr Jason Choy, Director of Android & Business Communication Product Partnerships, International, Google, expressed his pleasure at the collaboration with Singtel. He said, "We are pleased to collaborate with Singtel to bring RCS Business Messaging to users in Singapore. As Asia's leading communications technology group, we believe that Singtel can provide reliable telecommunication solutions to business players, including support for RCS. We hope this service will support digital transformation in various types of businesses and open new opportunities for future business innovation."

Singtel has an extensive range of cost-effective, scalable communication and collaboration products geared towards modern enterprises trying to navigate the fast-paced, digital business landscape and achieve top business productivity. Its offerings range from business telephony and integrated communication services to advanced platforms for audio/video conferencing and virtual meetings, aimed at creating a seamless communications experience for businesses of any size.