Chat features also known as RCS (Rich Communication Services) is the next generation of messaging for Android phones. Chat features (RCS) are supported on devices purchased from Shaw, brought to us from other carriers, or purchased directly from the manufacturer.
Shaw Mobile supports chat feature functionality built into the Google Messages app and Samsung Messages (select devices only).
Chat features use mobile data or a WiFi connection to send messages that include a suite of popular chat features:
Chat features use a data connection (mobile network or WiFi) to send messages between two chat feature enabled Android devices. Both sending and receiving devices must have chat features enabled and each customer’s carrier must support chat feature messaging.
Sending large files, images, or videos with chat features will count towards the data limits of our rate plan when connected to the mobile network. Text-based conversations with chat features also use a small amount of mobile data. When chat features are not available, messages will send as standard SMS/MMS. Additional charges may apply.
To use chat features on your Android device, you will need to have:
If you’re using a Dual SIM device, you’ll have to set Shaw Mobile as your default for mobile data to use chat features.
As chat features are dependent on service provider support and device manufacturer configuration, we cannot guarantee full chat feature support. Chat features are not compatible with iOS devices (e.g. iPhones)
All Android Devices
Samsung Galaxy Device
Are chat features available while roaming?
Chat features are available globally as long as you are connected to WiFi or have a mobile data connection, regardless if you are roaming or not. Roaming charges may apply.
Once chat features are activated, can I message over WiFi?
Yes, as long as the recipient also has an chat feature enabled Android phone.
There are no additional charges to use chat features over WiFi unless the Wi-Fi connection you are using requires payment.
I didn’t buy my Android phone from Shaw Mobile — can I still use chat features?
Yes, chat features are available if your phone has active Shaw Mobile service and you meet all the chat feature requirements.
Will I be charged for messages sent over WiFi to another chat feature user?
Unless you’re using a WiFi connection that requires payment, no additional charges will apply.
Usage charges for SMS and MMS may apply if messaging a phone that is not chat feature enabled.
How can you tell the difference between a chat features, SMS, and MMS message?
If you have chat features enabled Chat message will display in the messaging text box along with send icon.
SMS messages will display Text message in the messaging text box and will display SMS along with the send icon.
MMS messages will display Text message in the messaging text box and will display MMS along with the send icon.
How much data do chat features use?
Data consumption is dependent on which features you are using. For example, sending a high-resolution photo will require more data than a text-based message.
Why is there a warning about battery optimization?
Chat features are supported through Google integrations, and as a result, the Google Messages app requires the ability to sync in the background to deliver an enhanced messaging experience. Customers should not experience a noticeable increase in battery usage due to chat features.
Can I use chat features without a data plan?
Learn more about how you can use chat features without a data plan here.
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