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Getting Started with SWML: Building Smarter Call Flows in SignalWire
Welcome to a new era of low-code communications. In this SignalWire in Seconds episode, Nicholas introduces SWML (SignalWire Markup Language), a flexible and modern markup language built to streamline the way you create and manage call flows.
SWML builds on the best parts of legacy systems like XML, but adds modern simplicity and power thanks to its tight integration with SignalWire's FreeSWITCH-based infrastructure. It supports both YAML and JSON, giving developers the freedom to work in the format they prefer.
Here’s what you’ll learn in the video:
How to configure a SignalWire number to run a SWML script
Writing a simple script using the
play,prompt,switch, andrecordmethodsRouting logic with branches: transfer to sales or voicemail based on user input
Creating call flows that respond to both voice and keypress input
How call context and global variables make your logic clean and scalable
Unlike traditional XML-based telephony scripting, SWML allows you to define entire call flows within a single document, including prompts, call transfers, recordings, and logic branches. You’ll even see how to pass through caller ID and handle default behaviors if the caller doesn’t follow instructions.
With just a few lines of SWML, you can build interactive voice apps that feel responsive, modern, and tailored—without having to manage heavy infrastructure or complex boilerplate code.
What is RCS messaging?
Rich Communication Services (RCS) is the next generation of mobile messaging, designed to replace SMS and MMS. It supports high-quality images and video, verified sender identities, read receipts, typing indicators, and interactive elements like carousels and quick replies, all within the phone's native messaging app.
What is RCS Business Messaging (RBM)?
RCS Business Messaging (RBM) applies RCS capabilities to brand-to-consumer communication. It lets businesses message customers from a verified brand identity instead of a phone number, share rich media and documents, offer quick replies and CTAs, and handle actions like appointment confirmations and payments without the customer leaving the chat.
Is RCS replacing SMS?
RCS is positioned as the successor to SMS, but the transition is gradual. Businesses should adopt RCS where supported while keeping SMS and MMS as fallback channels for devices and networks that don't yet support it.
Does iPhone support RCS?
Yes. Apple added RCS support starting with iOS 18, with RCS Business Messaging support arriving in iOS 18.1. Combined with existing Android support, this brings RCS to the large majority of smartphones in the US.
Is RCS more effective than SMS for customer engagement?
Yes. Nearly 80% of consumers say RCS makes them more likely to engage with a brand, and RCS campaigns can achieve click-through rates up to 7x higher than SMS thanks to rich media, interactivity, and verified sender trust.
ow do businesses start sending RCS messages?
Businesses must first register an RCS agent, an approval process involving Google, aggregators, and mobile operators. From there, they can define use cases like marketing, customer service, or appointment reminders. SignalWire guides businesses through registration and campaign planning.
Which industries benefit most from RCS?
Retail, finance, and healthcare are early leaders. Retailers use RCS for in-chat purchases and product carousels, financial institutions use it for secure verified messaging and account alerts, and healthcare providers use it for appointment scheduling and reminders.
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