SMS, or Short Messaging Service, is a text-based messaging service that is used by over 2.4 billion mobile phone users worldwide. SMS allows users to send and receive text-based messages, pictures, videos, and audio clips from other mobile phone users and desktop computer users who have applications that can interact with mobile phones. SMS differs from emails and other text-based communication methods because it is compliant with 3G and 4G networks and has a maximum limit of 240 characters per page, making it ideal for short messages.

 

How SMS Works

Users are able to create SMS messages with any standard mobile phone by entering letters from an E.161 keypad or QWERTY full-layout keyboard. Once the user has selected a recipient of the message, it is sent over the user’s 3G network to the nearest cell phone tower, where it is redirected like a standard telephone call. Unlike a telephone call, however, SMS connections do not have to remain open, allowing for one-way delivery of messages without the need for Internet access.

 

Applications

SMS is most commonly used for text-based messages, but can also be used for premium services, such as ringtones, news alerts, and alerts concerning the user’s account. SMS is also used to send and receive videos, audio clips, and images. Additionally, each user has a carrier-specific identifier that allows him/her to send and receive SMS messages to and from an email address.

 

Advantages

SMS is advantageous because it allows users to quickly communicate with other cell phone users without making a telephone call, which can be advantageous if the user is driving, at work, or performing other activities that make telephone calls impractical. SMS is also advantageous because it does not require the user to have an Internet connection and can be used anywhere the user can make a telephone call.