SMS vs MMS: What’s the Difference?
For a long time now, text messaging has been used by friends, family and colleagues to communicate. Without a need to call and talk loudly, the contents of a text are relatively private. Businesses are now using this tool to market their goods and services to potential customers. The big success attributed to this marketing strategy is thanks to how these messages can be personalized. There are mainly two kinds of text messages namely the SMS vs MMS. What is the difference between these two terms?
Short Message Service (SMS)
SMS is a communication protocol that was first invented in the 1980s. It allows phone users to send and receive text-only messages. These messages are sent over cellular networks which means that you do not need to require data. With the invention of VoIP, SMSs can now be sent over the internet without requiring cellular networks. The length of an SMS is limited to 160 characters. Everything has to be in plain text. This means no photos, emojis or any other multimedia additions.
Multimedia Message Service (MMS)
This is a communication protocol that was created with the aim of improving SMS. Such messages may have a mix of images, website links, text and other multimedia files. There is no limit to the length of an MMS. Sending an MMS will require cellular data connection but it may also be sent over any internet connection using VoIp.
The Differences between SMS and MMS
The main difference between these two is that MMS supports sending multimedia files. On the other hand, SMS only supports sending plain text. Audios, videos, GIFs, images and hyperlinks can all be sent through MMS.
SMSs have a character limit while MMS do not. This means that you can send much more information on an MMS while SMSs are short and sweet.
SMS messages cost less to send compared to MMS messages. This is mainly because MMS messages are transmitting more data than SMSs. Generally, mobile network providers will charge MMSs 6 times the amount charged for SMSs. This cost will vary depending on the network providers you work with.
An SMS can be opened on any phone that has cellular network. On the other hand, to view the contents of an MMS one needs to have a supporting app installed. This makes SMSs a more convenient method of communication especially for business. Everyone will be able to view the contents of a short message service.
SMS or MMS – What to Use for Text Marketing?
Your business can benefit from text marketing be it by using SMS or MMS. Which one should you choose? This will depend on the kind of message you would like to pass.
SMSs are short and simple. They are ideal for sending time-sensitive alerts like limited offers and reminding people of their appointments. Also, purchase confirmations and company updates are best sent through SMS. After all these messages do not need any multimedia files. Any form of communication that only requires straightforward communication in plain words is best sent through an SMS. This type of communication is fast and straight to the point.
MMS messages are ideal for marketing strategies that need visual presentation. These include posters, promo offers containing images and much more. If you need to send a long text message, MMS is an ideal choice. This may include when sending a summarized proposal to a potential client, listing several items on offer and so on. An MMS will grab the attention of the recipient and is more memorable than an SMS. Include some humorous GIFs in there and your messages will have a better reception.
To have the best of each, combine both SMS and MMS in your texting marketing campaign. This combination will assure you success in your text messaging marketing campaign. Whether you choose to combine the two or use one, find a reliable mass texting service provider. Some qualities to look for are automation, two-way texting, support across different devices and affordability.
Bottom Line
SMS and MMS are similar yet different ways of passing messages. They are easy to use and because they are easily automated, businesses have found them useful. Businesses can easily pass the same message to many clients no matter where the clients are. Understanding the difference is important for businesses so as to know which type they should use at what given time.
