SMS (Short Message Service) was developed in the 1980s as part of the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standard. The first SMS was sent in 1992. MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) followed in the early 2000s, adding support for images, audio, and video.
Before SMS, mobile communication was limited to voice calls. SMS revolutionized communication by allowing text-based messages, while MMS later added rich media capabilities.
Popular Platforms
While SMS and MMS are built into every mobile phone, several platforms have emerged to help businesses manage bulk messaging:
- Twilio: A cloud communications platform that provides APIs for SMS, MMS, voice, and more.
- MessageBird: Offers a range of APIs for various communication channels, including SMS.
- Plivo: Provides APIs for SMS, voice calls, and other communication services.
- Vonage (formerly Nexmo): Offers APIs for SMS, voice, video, and verification.
Why Businesses Still Choose SMS/MMS
- Universal Reach: Unlike internet-based messaging apps, SMS works on virtually every mobile phone.
- High Open Rates: SMS messages have an open rate of up to 98%, far higher than email.
- Immediacy: Most SMS messages are read within minutes of receipt.
- Simplicity: No internet connection or app installation required.
How We Work with SMS/MMS
Our team uses SMS every day:
- Integrating SMS/MMS capabilities into existing applications
- Developing automated messaging systems for customer service or marketing
- Creating SMS-based interactive services (like polls or text-to-win contests)
With SMS/MMS, your message doesn’t just reach smartphones – it reaches every phone. In a world of fragmented communication channels, SMS/MMS offers a way to connect with almost every mobile user on the planet.