What is SMS?
Short Message Service is a text message service that enables short messages of generally no more than 140-160 characters in length to be sent and transmitted from a cell phone. SMS was introduced in the GSM system and later supported by all other digital-based mobile communications systems. Unlike paging, but similar to e-mail, short messages are stored and forwarded at SMS centers, which means you can retrieve your messages later if you are not immediately available to receive them. SMS messages travel to the cell phone over the system’s control channel, which is separate and apart from the voice channel. Some phones may also support what is known as concatenated SMS which allows for larger messages to be sent. Please check with your phone manual if this is supported.
• A: • SMS involves sending a text-message of 140-160 characters to a cell phone or pager, and holds significant advantages over the use of mobile email for sending important information. Originally devised as an afterthought to notify users of incoming voice mail, SMS has grown to include the sending of ringtones and graphics, as well, and taken on a life of its own.
