Bandwidth's 2026 State of Messaging Report Reveals Biggest Messaging Transformation in a Decade

Core Insights - Business messaging is experiencing a significant transformation driven by RCS, AI, and consumer demands for trust and transparency [1][2] Group 1: RCS and AI Impact - The "RCS Gap" presents a substantial opportunity, with 96% RCS device coverage but 59% of businesses planning to deploy RCS without having launched yet [4] - By 2030, 80% of enterprise applications are expected to be multimodal, integrating voice, text, and visual content, with RCS and AI-driven messaging becoming preferred methods [5] Group 2: SMS and Customer Engagement - SMS remains a crucial component for cost-efficient, high-volume reach, with brands using a mix of short codes, toll-free, 10DLC, and RCS, enhanced by AI for a personalized customer experience [6] - Trust is becoming a key differentiator, as enterprises move towards branded, verified messaging to enhance engagement and rebuild consumer confidence, utilizing RCS features like sender verification [7] Group 3: Deliverability and Provider Selection - Message deliverability is the primary factor in choosing a messaging provider, surpassing cost or features, with Bandwidth offering advanced tools for campaign registration and delivery insights to meet this priority [8]