SIM binding mandate reignites regulatory uncertainty over RCS: Experts

Mumbai: The government’s SIM binding mandate has renewed regulatory uncertainty over rich messaging service (RCS) channels. This is especially so in the case of whether RCS should be treated as an over-the-top (OTT) or a telecom network service from a regulatory lens.

Technically, RCS is not bound to the SIM and can be used without it, just like WhatsApp. However, it is also a GSMA-defined protocol adopted by all three private telecom operators in the country in partnership with Google.