Having RCS issues in Google Messages on Verizon? Here's a potential workaround

If you’re a Verizon user who’s been enjoying the rich features of RCS (Rich Communication Services) on your Android device, you might have recently encountered a frustrating setback. Reports have been pouring in from Verizon users who have suddenly found their RCS capabilities going AWOL.

The exact culprit behind this RCS disruption remains a bit of a mystery. Several Verizon users have been experiencing issues with RCS over the past few weeks. Reports indicate that this problem may have started with either a recent system software update or an update to the Google Messages app itself, similar to the one that introduced dual SIM RCS support. Either way, it’s not just you who’s been affected — the frustration is pretty widespread, and it’s not limited to just one device. From Pixels to Galaxy phones, users have been watching their messages revert to old-school SMS/MMS. So far, Verizon users report seeing either of these two messages:

Now, before you throw your phone across the room or switch to another messaging app, let’s talk about what could potentially get your RCS chats up and running again. Several users have shared their DIY solutions, which might just be what you need to get those read receipts and typing indicators back.

First things first, try reaching out to your carrier support. For Verizon users, this might be your best bet. One workaround that’s been making the rounds involves a bit of a digital dance: go into Airplane Mode, clear the cache and data of both Carrier Services and Google Messages, force stop them, and then turn Airplane Mode off again. Sounds simple, right? Well, it has worked for some people, so it’s worth a shot.

If you don’t have the Carrier Services app, search for it on the Google Play Store and install. Alternatively, you can download from the APKMirror and sideload it manually. But if all this doesn’t cut it, try taking a break and waiting it out. Several users reported that their RCS issues magically resolved themselves after a few days. Patience, as they say, is a virtue.

But don’t go thinking it’s just a Verizon problem. Some Google Fi and even non-US users have reported similar issues. The root cause seems to be a bit of a mystery, with Google and the carriers seemingly pointing fingers at each other. In some cases, a complete system reset or even switching to a physical SIM card (for those on eSIMs) has brought RCS back to life.