Understanding the Different Types of SMS and How They're Used

SMS (Short Message Service) is a messaging application that allows users to send and receive short text messages through mobile devices. It started successfully sending messages in 1992 and has survived being outcasted by new communication systems. Today, SMS remains one of the most widely used messaging services and is linked hand-in-hand with AI technology.

SMS messages are classified into four categories: Person-to-Person (P2P), Application/Advertiser to Person (A2P), Person-to-Network (P2N), and Internet-to-Person (I2P).

P2P messages are sent and received directly between two mobile subscribers if they are connected to the same Short Message Service Center (SMSC). If the recipient is connected to a different SMSC, the message will be forwarded to the corresponding destination SMSC for delivery. This process is known as bouncing.

A2P messages involve advertising agencies reaching out to mobile service providers to send advertisements to their registered mobile subscribers. Through this ad campaign service, mobile service providers can broadcast text messages to their customer’s devices. This approach is commonly known as the Push Mode of SMS messaging.

P2N or P2A messaging is used by content providers to offer downloadable items such as ringtones, games, and pictures to consumers through network service providers. Consumers and providers agree on the terms of these transactions. P2A messaging is widely used for TV campaigns, competitions, and subscriptions, and for users to engage with brands, companies, and service providers.

I2P messaging allows network users to send SMS to mobile subscribers from the internet. Some websites also accept incoming messages from mobile subscribers.

SMS has several advantages over other communication systems, such as messenger, WhatsApp, and email. It offers a wide area coverage, leaves a trace, and is held until it’s read or responded to, creating trust. According to a Mitto study conducted in May 2022, texts get younger age groups moving quicker with 44% of Gen Z consumers looking at notifications within a minute of getting a text.

Nowadays, mobile customers and subscribers are sending and receiving more data because of the accessibility and range of technology. SMS data is now utilized to efficiently set appointments and help users quickly claim benefits and valuable information.

If you're interested in learning about Konect.ai’s messaging capabilities, you can speak directly with our team here about our AI-powered automotive services.

Sources:

• Henion, Dani. Industry News. Make These 10 Text Message Marketing Trends Work for You in 2023. Dec. 7th, 2022. March 3, 2023.
• Mannheimer, Simon. SMS comparison. 20 SMS Marketing Statistics You Must Know in 2023. Feb. 26th, 2023. March 3, 2023
• Mitto. Two-Thirds of Gen Z favor text messaging over email during ecommerce interactions. Jun. 27, 2022. March 3, 2023.
• Obolenskaya, Christina. Insider Intelligence. Brands are only a text away from the Gen Z consumer - Insider Intelligence Trends, Forecasts & Statistics. July 6, 2022. Feb. 22, 2023.
• Blog image by Jcomp via Freepik.