Sending a text the wrong way could cost you money and trouble

SMS, MMS and RCS are the three main types of mobile messaging.

Each has its own capabilities, limitations and impact on your experience.

Choosing the right carrier based on how you communicate can help avoid surprise charges.

Google Messages is the most reliable app for accessing RCS features, especially on Android devices.

You can expect full support for SMS , MMS and RCS on the following carriers: AT&T , Verizon , T-Mobile, US Cellular , C Spire , Consumer Cellular , Cricket, Family Mobile , FirstNet , H2O Wireless , Metro Mobile , Mint Mobile , Boost Mobile , Google Fi , PureTalk, Spectrum Mobile , Straight Talk and US Mobile .

All major U.S. carriers and most MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) now support RCS messaging on iPhone.

On Android , RCS is available through Google Messages and widely supported across all major carriers.

To enhance your mobile messaging security, follow these best practices.

Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps for secure communication.

Use MFA to add an extra layer of security for your messaging apps and accounts.