How to Onboard an RCS Sender ID via Twilio

Overview

This guide outlines the steps required to register a Rich Communication Services (RCS) Sender ID through your Twilio account and connect it to your CRM. This process is necessary to enable RCS messaging capabilities.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, please ensure you have the following:

  • An active Twilio account that is enrolled for RCS.
  • Access to the specific Twilio sub-account where you intend to create the Sender ID.

Important Note: RCS Sender IDs require approval from mobile carriers and Google. This external approval process is separate from the technical setup described here.

Procedure

Part 1: Creating the RCS Sender ID

Step 1: Log In to the Correct Twilio Sub-Account

Navigate to the Twilio Console and log in. Ensure you are operating within the specific sub-account for which you want to set up the RCS Sender ID, as these configurations are account-specific.

Step 2: Create the RCS Sender ID

In the Twilio Console, navigate to DevelopRCSSenders. Click the button to create a new RCS Sender. You will need to complete the required fields, which typically include:

  • Sender Display Name: The name recipients will see.
  • Description: A brief description of the sender's purpose.
  • Logo Image: Your brand logo for the messaging thread.
  • Banner Image: A banner image for the sender profile.
  • Accent Color: A brand color for the message interface.

Fill in any additional fields presented by Twilio during this registration flow.

Step 3: Configure Webhooks for the Sender ID

After creating the Sender ID, locate its Configuration tab. Set the following webhook URLs, ensuring the method for each is set to POST:

  • Incoming Messages URL:
  • Fallback URL:
  • Status Callback URL:

Part 2: Creating a Twilio Messaging Service

Step 4: Create a Messaging Service

In the Twilio Console, go to DevelopMessagingServices. If Messaging is not visible, you may need to add it via the Explore Products section first. Click to create a new Messaging Service, give it a name, and select the appropriate use case when prompted.

Step 5: Configure Messaging Service Webhooks

During the setup of the Messaging Service, you will reach an Integration step. Configure the following webhooks here:

  • Incoming Messages:
    • Request URL:
    • Method: HTTP POST
  • Fallback URL:
  • Delivery Status Callback:
    • Callback URL:

Click Save to complete the configuration.

Part 3: Linking the RCS Sender ID to the Messaging Service

Step 6: Add the RCS Sender to the Sender Pool

Open the Messaging Service you just created. Navigate to its Sender Pool tab and click to add senders. Select RCS Sender as the Sender Type, then choose your specific RCS Sender from the list and add it.

Part 4: Completing Onboarding in Your CRM

To finalize the connection, you must provide specific details from your Twilio account. Please share the following information with your CRM support team.

Required Information and Where to Find It

  • Account SID: Found on your Twilio sub-account dashboard.
  • Messaging Service SID: Go to MessagingServices, open your service, and navigate to Properties. The SID begins with 'MG'.
  • RCS Sender SID: Go to RCSSenders and open your Sender. The SID begins with 'XE'.
  • RCS Sender ID: On the same RCS Sender details page. The ID begins with 'rcs:'.
  • Sender Display Name, Description, Logo Image URL, Banner Image URL: All found under RCSSenders → [Your Sender] → Public Details.
  • Friendly Name: A user-defined name for display within your CRM only.