Fonada AI is an omnichannel AI agent platform that enables businesses to build and deploy conversational AI agents across WhatsApp, Voice Telephony, RCS Messaging, Web Widget, and Chatbot channels in under 5 minutes. It features a no-code flow builder, RAG knowledge base, 70+ tool integrations, and automated workflows for customer engagement.

How long does it take to set up an AI agent on Fonada?

You can build and deploy a fully functional AI agent in under 5 minutes using Fonada's no-code platform. The process involves four simple steps: Choose your channel (WhatsApp, Voice, RCS, etc.), Configure your AI (personality, behavior, LLM provider), Add knowledge (upload documents or connect data sources), and Deploy. Your agent is immediately live and ready to serve customers.

What channels does Fonada support?

Fonada supports 5+ communication channels: WhatsApp Business API with templates and rich media, RCS Messaging with rich cards and carousels, Voice/Telephony with real-time speech-to-text and text-to-speech, Web Widget with voice and chat capabilities for websites, and text-based Chatbot for any platform. Deploy once and engage customers everywhere.

What is the difference between SMS and RCS?

SMS is limited to 160 characters of plain text with no media support, while RCS supports 8,000+ characters, rich media (images, videos), interactive buttons, carousel cards, and verified sender branding. RCS has ~85% open rates vs SMS's ~20%, and ~35% click-through rates vs SMS's ~2%. RCS also provides read receipts and typing indicators that SMS lacks.

Is Fonada SOC 2 compliant?

Yes, Fonada is SOC 2 certified with enterprise-grade security. We offer 256-bit encryption for all data, role-based access control, comprehensive audit logs, API key management, and GDPR compliance. Our platform guarantees 99.9% SLA uptime with automatic failover systems.

What automation features does Fonada offer?

Fonada includes pre-built automation templates for abandoned cart recovery (recover 15-30% of lost sales), payment link follow-up, and invoice reminders. The visual flow builder allows you to create custom conversation flows without coding. Automations can trigger based on user behavior, time delays, or external events via webhooks.

What LLM providers does Fonada support?

Fonada supports multiple LLM providers including OpenAI (GPT-4o, GPT-4, GPT-3.5 Turbo) and Groq (LLaMA 3.3-70B Versatile, Mixtral 8x7B). For voice capabilities, we integrate with ElevenLabs for natural-sounding text-to-speech. You can choose the best model for your use case and budget.

What is the best AI chatbot platform for WhatsApp in India?

The best fit depends on your use case, but teams in India often prioritize platforms with reliable WhatsApp Business API delivery, RCS and voice in the same stack, no-code and AI-native flows, India-friendly pricing, and local compliance. Fonada is built as an India-focused omnichannel AI agent platform: you get WhatsApp plus Voice, RCS, and web in one place, 70+ integrations, a visual flow builder, and enterprise SLAs—ideal for support, sales, and automation at scale.

How do I build a voice AI agent for customer support?

On Fonada you define the agent in the visual builder, connect your knowledge base and tools, enable the Voice channel, and map intents to flows (e.g. order status, refunds, handoff to a human). Configure speech-to-text and text-to-speech, set business hours and routing, then test in the playground and deploy to your telephony or widget. No separate voice stack is required; the same agent can run on chat and voice.

What is the difference between AI agents and RPA?

RPA (robotic process automation) typically automates rule-based, repetitive tasks in fixed UIs and systems using scripts and selectors. AI agents use large language models and tools to understand natural language, reason over context, and take multi-step actions (APIs, CRM, search, handoffs). RPA is great for stable back-office routines; AI agents are better for open-ended conversations, personalization, and channel-native customer engagement.

Can AI chatbots handle multiple languages?

Yes. Modern AI agents on platforms like Fonada can converse in many languages in the same flow—driven by your chosen LLM, prompts, and knowledge base. You can set a default language, detect user language from messages, and route to localized templates (e.g. WhatsApp) or voice. Consistency in tone and brand voice should be set in the system instructions and reviewed per locale.

How much does WhatsApp Business API cost?

WhatsApp Business API pricing has two parts: Meta conversation-based pricing (varies by country, category, and session type) and your BSP or platform fees. On Fonada you typically pay for platform usage, conversations, and optional add-ons. Exact numbers change by region and message category—use Fonada’s pricing page or contact sales for current rate cards, currency (e.g. INR), and any volume or enterprise plans.

What integrations does Fonada support for e-commerce?

Fonada supports 70+ tool integrations, including e-commerce and ops: order and catalog systems, payment links, abandoned cart and payment reminders, CRM and helpdesk, webhooks, and custom APIs. Use cases include cart recovery, order status, COD confirmation, and returns—exposed in the no-code flow builder and agent tools. Connect your stack via native connectors or custom integrations.

How does Fonada compare to Gupshup, Infobip, Twilio, and Bird?

All five provide messaging CPaaS in some form, but focus differs. Comparison (high level): (1) Core positioning — Fonada: omnichannel AI agent platform (WhatsApp, Voice, RCS, web) with no-code + RAG; Gupshup, Infobip, Twilio, Bird: broad CPaaS with conversations API and varying low-code and partner ecosystems. (2) India / RCS: Fonada emphasizes India-first programs including Jio RCS; check each vendor for current RCS and regional coverage. (3) AI depth: Fonada is built around multi-step AI agents, tools, and knowledge; others add AI through products or partners—evaluate your need for a single product vs. self-assembled stack. (4) Abandoned cart and commerce: Fonada offers templates and flows for recovery and e-commerce; compare feature depth and time-to-launch. (5) Table — Primary strength | Fonada: AI agents, omnichannel, India focus | Gupshup: long-standing WhatsApp ecosystem | Infobip: global supernetwork and suite | Twilio: developer-first APIs, broad U.S. adoption | Bird (MessageBird): global messaging and Inbox. Choose based on your channels, country, budget, and whether you need a unified AI product versus raw APIs.

RCS messaging business communication SMS alternative guides

What is RCS Messaging? Complete Guide to Rich Communication Services

FonadaLabs TeamJanuary 20, 2026 8 min read

What is RCS Messaging?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a communication protocol designed to replace SMS with a richer, more interactive messaging experience. Think of it as "SMS 2.0" – it maintains the simplicity of text messaging while adding features previously only available in apps like WhatsApp or iMessage.

Key Features of RCS

1. Rich Media Support

Unlike SMS which is limited to plain text, RCS supports:
- High-resolution images and photos
- Videos up to 100MB
- Audio files and voice messages
- GIFs and stickers
- PDF documents and files

2. Interactive Elements

RCS transforms passive messages into interactive experiences:
- Suggested Replies: Pre-defined response buttons users can tap
- Action Buttons: Up to 4 buttons for actions like "Buy Now", "Book Appointment"
- Carousel Cards: Horizontal scrolling product cards with images and CTAs
- Calendar Events: Create calendar entries directly from messages

3. Verified Sender

One of RCS's most important features for businesses:
- Company logo displayed in the message thread
- Verified brand name (no spoofing possible)
- Trust badge showing message is from official brand
- Custom brand colors and themes

4. Enhanced Messaging Features

- Read Receipts: Know when messages are delivered and read
- Typing Indicators: See when the recipient is responding
- High Character Limit: 8,000+ characters vs SMS's 160
- Group Messaging: Up to 100 participants with rich features

RCS vs SMS: Key Differences

| Feature | SMS | RCS |
|---------|-----|-----|
| Character Limit | 160 | 8,000+ |
| Media Support | ❌ | ✅ Images, Video, Audio |
| Interactive Buttons | ❌ | ✅ Up to 4 buttons |
| Verified Sender | ❌ | ✅ Brand logo & verification |
| Open Rate | ~20% | ~85% |
| Click-through Rate | ~2% | ~35% |

Why Businesses Should Use RCS

1. Higher Engagement

With 85% open rates and 35% click-through rates, RCS dramatically outperforms SMS for business messaging.

2. Richer Customer Experience

Interactive buttons, carousel product displays, and rich media create engaging experiences that drive conversions.

3. Brand Trust

Verified sender badges eliminate spoofing concerns and build customer confidence.

4. Automatic Fallback

If a recipient's device doesn't support RCS, messages automatically fall back to SMS – ensuring 100% deliverability.

How to Get Started with RCS

1. Choose an RCS Provider: Platforms like Fonada handle the technical complexity
2. Register Your Brand: Verify your business identity
3. Create Templates: Design rich message templates with media and buttons
4. Launch Campaigns: Start sending RCS messages to your customers

Conclusion

RCS represents the future of business messaging. With its rich features, verified sending, and dramatically higher engagement rates, businesses that adopt RCS early will have a significant advantage in customer communication.

Ready to try RCS? Start your free trial with Fonada and deploy RCS messages in 5 minutes.

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