Best RCS-supported phones in Nigeria

If you’ve ever wondered why regular SMS texts feel so basic compared to apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, you’re not alone. Those green bubbles just don’t cut it anymore.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to rely only on third-party apps to enjoy a rich chatting experience. Android has a feature called RCS messaging, which is built into your phone’s default messaging app, especially if you’re using Google Messages.

Now, before you rush to check your phone, not every device supports RCS out of the box, especially in Nigeria. That’s why this article walks you through the best RCS-supported phones in Nigeria and what you should know before buying one.

What Exactly is RCS Messaging?

Let’s start from the top.
RCS stands for Rich Communication Services. Think of it like SMS 2.0, the upgraded version of regular text messaging.

With RCS, your phone’s messaging app becomes more like WhatsApp or iMessage. You can:

• See when someone is typing
• Get read receipts
• Send high-quality images and videos
• React to messages with emojis
• Share files, voice notes, and even locations

The cool part? You don’t need to install a new app. You just need the Google Messages App and a phone that supports RCS.

And it also depends on whether your network provider supports it. In Nigeria, most major networks like MTN, Airtel, and Glo are gradually supporting RCS. So we’re getting there.

What to Know Before You Buy

Let’s say you’re ready to buy a phone that supports RCS. Good, but pause a second.
Here’s what you need to check before doing that:

1. Does it run on Android 10 or newer?
   Most RCS features are built into Android 10 and above. The newer the version, the better.
2. Does it come with Google Messages?
   Some phones use their own SMS apps. Make sure you can install and use Google Messages, since it’s the main app that supports RCS.
3. Is your SIM ready?
   Even if your phone supports it, some carriers in Nigeria may not enable RCS right away. So be ready to test different SIMs or network settings.
4. Dual SIM tip: On most phones, only one SIM can have RCS active at a time. So if you’re using two SIM cards, you’ll need to pick one for your RCS features.
5. Internet connection matters: RCS needs data or Wi-Fi to work. If you’re offline, it switches back to SMS.

Best RCS-supported phones in Nigeria

Here are ten (10) great phones available in Nigeria right now that support RCS messaging.

1. Google Pixel 7a

If you want the purest RCS experience, Google Pixel phones are the gold standard. Google builds the RCS features directly into the software, so everything just works. No extra setup, no hidden settings. Just open Google Messages and you’re good to go.

• Android Version: Android 14
• Price: Around ₦420,000 to ₦480,000
• Why it’s great: Clean software, fast updates, and perfect RCS compatibility

2. Samsung Galaxy A55

Samsung is very reliable when it comes to RCS. The Galaxy A55 is a fantastic mid-range device with beautiful design and strong performance. It supports Google Messages with full RCS features and works well with Nigerian SIM cards.

• Android Version: Android 14
• Price: Around ₦360,000 to ₦410,000
• Why it’s great: Great value for money with rich messaging built in

3. Infinix Zero 30 5G

Surprised? Infinix has stepped up. The Zero 30 supports Google Messages and runs Android 13, which means you can enable RCS chat features easily. It’s also one of the more affordable 5G phones available in Nigeria right now.

• Android Version: Android 13
• Price: ₦290,000 to ₦330,000
• Why it’s great: Affordable and feature-packed with RCS support

4. Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro

Xiaomi’s MIUI interface has improved its support for Google services. With a few tweaks (like setting Google Messages as the default), RCS works fine. This phone offers great specs for the price.

• Android Version: Android 13
• Price: ₦270,000 to ₦310,000
• Why it’s great: Great camera, good battery life, and chat-friendly

5. Samsung Galaxy S23

If you’re going premium, go all the way. The Galaxy S23 is a flagship phone that offers everything you’d want — smooth performance, beautiful screen, excellent camera, and full RCS support from day one.

• Android Version: Android 14
• Price: ₦600,000 and above
• Why it’s great: Best for users who want zero limitations on messaging

6. Tecno Phantom X2

Tecno used to lag behind in Google service support, but not anymore. The Phantom X2 is sleek, powerful, and supports Google Messages fully. If you’re loyal to the Tecno brand, this is the one to go for.

• Android Version: Android 12
• Price: ₦350,000 to ₦400,000
• Why it’s great: Premium Tecno phone with full Google messaging tools

7. OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite

This one’s a sleeper hit. OnePlus is known for smooth software and performance. It handles Google Messages very well and enables chat features without hassle.

• Android Version: Android 13
• Price: ₦320,000 to ₦370,000
• Why it’s great: Clean user interface, fast updates, and smooth chats

8. Samsung Galaxy A15

One of the best entry-level phones with support for RCS. If you’re just getting started or don’t want to spend too much, the A15 is solid. Google Messages runs well, and chat features are active out of the box.

• Android Version: Android 14
• Price: ₦240,000 to ₦280,000
• Why it’s great: Budget-friendly with no compromise on messaging

9. Nokia G60

Simple, fast, and reliable. Nokia’s Android One software ensures that Google Messages and RCS work exactly how they should. If you like clean software and no bloatware, this is a strong pick.

• Android Version: Android 13
• Price: ₦200,000 to ₦250,000
• Why it’s great: Lightweight and perfect for clean communication

10. Oppo Reno 11

Stylish and modern, the Oppo Reno 11 offers great messaging features and full RCS support. Its camera and display are also impressive, making it great for everyday use.

• Android Version: Android 13
• Price: ₦380,000 to ₦430,000
• Why it’s great: Stylish users who want smooth communication

How to Know if Your Phone Supports RCS

Here’s a quick way to check if your phone supports RCS messaging:

1. Open the Google Messages app
2. Tap the three dots or your profile photo
3. Go to Messages settings
4. Tap Chat features or RCS Chats
5. If it says Status: Connected, you’re good to go

If it says Setting up, give it a few minutes and ensure you’re connected to the internet. If it says Unavailable, then your phone or SIM might not support RCS yet.

Pro tip: Make sure Google Messages is your default SMS app, or else RCS won’t activate.

That’s all

There you have it, the best RCS-supported phones in Nigeria. Whether you’re buying a Pixel, Samsung, or even an Infinix, you now know what to look out for and how to make the most of your Android chat experience.

If you’ve been ignoring that “Chat features” section in your Messages app, this is your sign to explore it. It can completely change how you text, especially if your friends are also using RCS.

RCS is still rolling out across networks in Nigeria, so not everything will work perfectly on day one. But with the right phone, you’re already halfway there.