How to create RCS carousel template

Video guide

RCS (Rich Communication Services) Carousel Templates allow businesses to showcase multiple products, offers, or messages in a swipeable format that customers can easily browse. 

This interactive message format creates engaging experiences with rich media, multiple card elements, and actionable buttons that drive higher engagement and conversion rates.

Watch tutorial below to learn how to create an RCS Carousel Template in Bird, including: 

• Creating a new message project specifically for RCS carousels
• Configuring template settings including name, language, and category
• Designing multiple carousel cards with compelling images and concise text
• Adding personalization variables to create dynamic, tailored content
• Configuring action buttons and suggested replies for each card
• Preview how your carousel will appear across different devices

Step-by-step guide

Follow the step-by-step guide to learn how to create RCS carousel message.

Step 1: Access RCS template management

1. In the main menu navigate to Developer product
2. Navigate to Channels section in the menu 
3. Click on RCS Google 
4. Open Templates management

Step 2: Start a new template project

1. Click on "Create Teamplate" or similar button
2. Select "Google RCS" as your messaging channel
3. This will initiate the RCS template creation process

Step 3: Select Carousel template type

1. From the template options, choose "RCS Carousel"
2. This template type allows you to create multiple cards that users can swipe through
3. Carousels are ideal for showcasing product collections, special offers, or step-by-step instructions

Step 4: Configure template settings

1. Enter a Project Name for internal reference
2. Select your Default Locale (primary language)

Step 5: Design your first carousel card

1. Look at the menu on the right side of your screen

2. Toggle between small and medium sized card width

3. Click on a card to start editing 

4. Add a compelling Title for the card (keep it short and clear)

5. Write concise Description text that conveys key information

6. Upload a high-quality image that showcases your product or message

   • Ensure images meet the required dimensions 
   • Keep file sizes optimized for quick loading

7. Add your brand logo for consistent identity

Step 6: Add action buttons to the first card

1. Add Card action buttons for each card

2. Choose appropriate actions such as:

   • URL links to product pages
   • Phone calls
   • Map locations
   • Calendar events

3. Use clear, action-oriented text for buttons (e.g., "Shop Now," "Learn More"

Step 7: Create additional carousel cards

1. Click "Add Card" or similar to create your next carousel card
2. RCS carousels typically support 3-10 cards (check carrier-specific limitations)
3. Design each card following the same principles as the first
4. Maintain a consistent visual style across all cards
5. Ensure each card makes sense independently while also working as part of the sequence

Step 8: Add personalization variables

Variables allow you to dynamically insert personalized content

To add a variable:

1. Click on Settings tab 
2. From here open "Variables" tab
3. Click on “Add new variable” 
4. Enter a name for the variable (e.g., "customer_name")
5. Add a short description explaining the variable's purpose
6. Choose the variable type
7. Provide example values for each language locale
8. Return to the Editor tab and insert the variable where needed. You can insert it by clicking on the curly bracket of the text editor (bottom right corner)
9. Variables appear in your template with specific formatting (e.g., {{customer_name}})

Step 9: Preview and test your carousel

1. Navigate to the Preview Tab Use to see how your carousel will appear
2. Test swiping through the cards to ensure a smooth experience
3. Make adjustments as needed for optimal appearance and functionality

Step 10: Submit for approval

1. Review all elements of your carousel for accuracy and compliance
2. Click "Publish" to send template for approval 
3. Approval times typically range from 1-5 business days