Text messaging is one of the easiest and most popular forms of communication for personal and business use. As SMS messaging continues to gain traction, organizations are being pushed to create communication strategies that will accommodate their specific needs. But it can be tricky selecting the perfect methods for your business without knowing what you require in advance; thus, it’s essential to thoroughly assess and identify which strategies would be most beneficial before making a decision.
Messaging is an effective and rapidly growing technology with countless advantages that can help you quickly, easily, and cost-effectively reach your target audience. With so many texting applications available today it can be hard to choose the one best for achieving your goals. SMS messaging vs iMessage, these are two of the most commonly used text communication methods. This article will provide an in-depth comparison of these two messaging systems to help you decide which is right for your business.
What is iMessage?
iMessage is Apple’s instant messaging service that is exclusively available on iOS devices, including iPhones, iPads, iPod Touches, and Macs. It was released in 2011 with the introduction of iOS 5 and has since become one of the most widely used messaging applications across the globe.
iMessage brings the power of connection to your fingertips. You can now effortlessly send videos, photos, texts, and emojis to Apple devices with Wi-Fi or cellular data networks. Not only that, but you also can create group chats as well as share multimedia files among iMessage users quickly and securely.
With iMessage’s Apple Business Chat, businesses can stay connected to their customers in an entirely new way. This feature offers unparalleled customer service opportunities — personalizing the experience and allowing orders and transactions with Apple Pay. Plus, virtual assistants are available for streamlined communication. With such exceptional benefits, it’s no wonder that so many companies have integrated this powerful tool into their strategy.
Read more about What is iMessage to understand how it works.
How to enable iMessage in iPhone?
Apple iPhone and iOS users who can use iMessage without downloading an app. Enjoy effortless communication with iMessage, powered by Apple! You only need an Apple device – iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Mac, or even your Watch- and a valid Apple ID. Everything else happens automatically in the Messages app. When adding a contact to chat with; it’ll immediately recognize if they own an Apple product that allows them access to iMessage.
What are the advantages of iMessage vs SMS Text Messages?
There are seven advantages iMessage can provide vs the usual SMS messaging. The sheer range of options provided by iMessage makes it an incredibly practical choice for digital communication. Here are some of our favorite, unique benefits that you don’t get with SMS messaging.
End-to-End Encryption
Apple values your privacy above all else, which is why they ensure that every iMessage you send is encrypted from end-to-end. Your messages are secure, and no one can intercept or read them – not Apple itself. Rest assured, knowing that only the person you’re sending it to will have access to these messages
Even if someone has your device, they can’t access your iMessages without the passcode. As a result of this heightened security from Apple, they’ve taken criticism from the United States government since even they can’t reveal any data stored in an iMessage – regardless of their insistence.
Read Message Confirmations and See Live Typing
With iMessage, you can remain updated on the status of your messages! A simple glance at the Messages app reveals whether a message has been delivered or read – in addition to when it was received. Once someone gets your text, “Delivered” is printed beneath the bubble; after they open it up, that changes to “Read,” along with an accompanying timestamp.
Even better than that, three flashing dots appear when someone sends you a text message – so there’s no need to guess. Just wait for it.
Add Stickers and Effects
Make your iMessage stand out with a fun effect, like fireworks in the background! Apple is always introducing new and exciting features to iMessage, so take advantage of them by adding effects to emphasize what you want to communicate. You can also quickly respond using tags or stickers for a more customized experience.
If you’re sending messages, why not make your messages more fun by taking advantage of the many extra features available? With Face ID-enabled iPhones, create Memoji videos that perfectly mimic your facial expressions. Plus with fullscreen effects to choose from, give an added touch of flare to each message you send!
Sync to Other Devices
Thanks to recent iOS updates, you can now send and receive messages across all your Apple devices with just a few taps! The Messages app works seamlessly over iCloud, so any changes like sending, receiving, or deleting are synced between your devices. This way you won’t ever miss a beat when switching from one device to another mid-conversation.
Text Message Forwarding must be activated within your iPhone Settings for optimal use with text messages. Although this gives it a boost compared to iMessage, the process is unfortunately not as seamless and fails to match the same level of efficiency that comes with iMessage.
Send More With iMessage
Text messages are confined to only 160 characters and a less-than-sharp photo, but with iMessage, you can go far beyond that due to its Internet capabilities. It allows one to transfer an array of diverse data types at the click of a button.
Apple’s instant messaging service lets you send other media types such as GIFs, voice recordings, emojis, photos, and videos.
You can send and receive content without incurring fees when using Wi-Fi for iMessage. In addition, photos are sent in the highest quality available! However, if connecting through cellular data, be mindful of your data allowance – it might run out quickly.
Group Conversations
iMessage takes the conversation to a new level, allowing you and your friends or colleagues to chat in a group setting.
Unlike texting, the Messages app provides advanced capabilities like “@” tagging specific people within huge groups, replying directly with inline responses, and customizing photos for each discussion thread.
Download iMessage apps
With your iPhone, you can use various iMessage apps to supplement the Messages application. These applications are accessible through the App Store and drastically improve your communication with others.
Apple has integrated a range of iMessage apps so you can effortlessly send pictures, songs, applications, and doodles without leaving the conversation. What’s more – with Apple Pay you can even transfer funds to your friends in no time! All these features are at your disposal right above the keyboard.
With third-party iMessage apps, the possibilities are endless. You can book tickets, play games, start a poll, sell things and even make dinner reservations – all of which you cannot do with traditional text messages! So don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to add more fun and convenience to your life.
What are the disadvantages of iMessage vs SMS Text Messages?
iMessage also has a few limitations. Despite its many advantages, using iMessage has several disadvantages. Here are some of them.
- One of the biggest disadvantages of using iMessage is that it is exclusive to Apple users. If you want to send a message or file to someone who doesn’t have an iPhone, they won’t be able to receive it.
- While iMessage allows you to share files with other Apple users, its file-sharing capabilities are not as advanced as SMS Text Messages.
- iMessages can only be sent over Wi-Fi or data networks and cannot be sent when there is no signal available. This means you won’t be able to send messages in certain areas where the network signal is weak or nonexistent.
- iMessage is not as secure as SMS Text Messages and can be intercepted, which could lead to potential privacy issues. It may take some time for messages to be received or sent over iMessage since the service relies on signals from Wi-Fi networks or data providers.
- Sending iMessages requires an Apple ID, so you must have one to use the service. This can be a hassle if you don’t have an Apple ID or don’t want to create one.
- iMessage is unavailable in all countries, so there may be some geographical restrictions when using the service.
What is SMS Text Message?
SMS text messaging is a type of mobile communication that requires only plain text, without any accompanying media. To keep the proper structure and format, special codes replace some characters, confusing those new to it.
SMS Text is the leader in messaging services and offers various advantages to its users. Unlike MMS, SMS Text can be used on any phone – even those that don’t support multimedia messages! That’s why it has become the go-to choice for so many people. SMS text messaging is also the option for most users because it is less complicated, does not require internet connectivity, and is available for all platforms and devices.
Nowadays, 81% of people in the United States rely on SMS regularly. Moreover, due to its smaller size and simplicity, many users opt for this form of communication over others.
Read more about What is SMS to understand how can help your business.
How to enable SMS Text Message?
SMS Text Message is relatively easy to enable. To send and receive SMS text messages, you must have a cellular connection enabled on your device. Open the messaging app on your phone, select the “Settings” option, and click “Enable Messages.” You will be asked to link your device or SIM card to a service provider to activate the messaging function.
Once done, you can start sending SMS text messages from your device. iPhone users also needed to switch from iMessage to SMS text messages. If users cannot send an iMessage due to connectivity issues, they may opt to send SMS messages instead.
To switch from iMessage to SMS messaging on your Apple device, navigate to the “Settings” tab located on your phone and scroll down until you find the “Messages” section. Then, toggle off iMessage. For an even more seamless transition, you can also opt-in for sending SMS messages when messages are unavailable.
What are the advantages of SMS Text Messages over iMessage?
SMS text messages are a reliable, affordable, and simple way to send messages over the phone. It has may advantage over iMessage. Here are some of them.
- SMS messages are more secure than iMessage and difficult to intercept, which makes them ideal for sensitive conversations.
- SMS requires less power than an Internet connection, making it the perfect choice for remote areas lacking data coverage.
- You don’t need an Apple ID to send an SMS Text Message.
- SMS messages are available in all countries and are not just restricted to Apple platforms. Text messages can be sent over any connection – Wi-Fi, data or cellular.
What are the disadvantages of SMS Text Messages vs iMessage?
While SMS Text Messages have many advantages, there are drawbacks too. Here are some disadvantages of SMS text messages over iMessage.
- SMS text messages have a limited character count, so they can’t be used to send lengthy conversations.
- Text messages are not as secure as iMessage since they do not use end-to-end encryption. They can also be intercepted and read by unauthorized parties.
- Sending SMS Text Messages requires users to have a network connection and prepaid or postpaid credits, which can be expensive in some areas.
What is the difference between iMessage vs SMS Message in terms of Sending Messages?
When sending an iMessage, users must have a valid Apple ID and access to the internet. On the other hand, when sending an SMS message, users do not need an Apple ID and can send messages without an internet connection.
To send an iMessage, you’ll need to be connected to cellular data or a Wi-Fi network. On the other hand, texting only requires some cell reception; it bounces from one tower to another. So if your internet connection isn’t working properly, but you still have signal bars on your phone, you may send text messages without any issues! With iMessage and texts providing convenient communication options, there’s no excuse for not staying in touch with those who matter most.
With iMessage, you can stay connected with friends and family free via Wi-Fi. Otherwise, your data allowance will be used to send messages. However, if you have a cell phone contract that includes unlimited texts, sending text messages won’t come out of your contract allowance!
What is the difference between iMessage vs SMS Message in terms of Receiving Messages?
iMessages are received faster than text messages, as long as both users have access to an active internet connection. Text messages may take several minutes or even hours to arrive without network coverage. When using iOS devices, iMessage is received in blue bubbles while those received via SMS text message are green.
What is the difference between SMS Message vs iMessage in terms of Blocking Messages?
When it comes to blocking messages, both iMessage and SMS messaging have their own advantages. With iMessage, users can block contact by going into their Settings app and selecting “Block Contact” from the Messages tab. On the other hand, users can block SMS text messages by opening up the message thread of the individual they wish to block, tapping the “i” icon in the top right-hand corner, and selecting “Block This Caller”.
What is the difference between iMessage vs SMS Message in terms of Blocking Numbers?
In blocking numbers, users have slightly different options when choosing between iMessage or text messages. With iMessage, users can go into their Settings app and select “Block Contact” from the Messages tab to block a number. On the other hand, when blocking SMS text messages, users must open up the message thread of the individual they wish to block, tap the “i” icon in the top right-hand corner, and select “Block This Caller.”
Is iMessage the default Message App in iPhone?
Yes, iMessage is the default messaging app for iPhones and other Apple devices. It provides users with an easy-to-use platform for sending and receiving messages over data or Wi-Fi. iMessage automatically switches to regular SMS text messages when users send them to another device with a different operating system or when there is no internet connectivity.
Can you send an iMessage through wifi?
Yes, you can send an iMessage over Wi-Fi. You’ll need a valid Apple ID and access to the internet to send and receive messages. As long as your device is connected to the internet, you can send messages without using any cellular data. iMessage is the default messaging platform for Apple devices. If you are using Android devices, you won’t be able to use iMessage.
Can you use SMS Messages on your iPhone?
Yes, you can send and receive SMS text messages on an iPhone. To do so, the person sending the message must have a valid phone number and data or Wi-Fi access. iOS devices are designed to automatically switch to regular SMS text messages when users send them to another device with a different operating system or when there is no internet connectivity.
Is iMessage free internationally?
Yes, iMessage is a free service and can be used for international messaging. As long as both parties have an active internet connection, you can easily communicate without extra fees. However, data fees may apply depending on your network provider and country of residence.
Can you send an SMS Text Message on wifi?
No, you cannot send an SMS text message over Wi-Fi. To send a text message, the person sending the message must have a valid phone number and access to a cellular network. Wi-Fi will only allow you to send via iMessage, Apple’s proprietary messaging system.
Does iMessage use data?
Yes, iMessage does use data for sending and receiving messages. This includes both Wi-Fi and cellular data, depending on the type of connection you are using. Data fees may apply depending on your network provider and country of residence.
Does iMessage show up on the phone bill?
No, iMessages do not show up on phone bills as they are sent over data instead of through a cellular network. You can easily send messages without extra fees if you have internet access.
iMessage vs SMS Message, Which one should you choose?
The choice between iMessage and SMS text messages ultimately depends on your needs. If you need to send messages internationally or have no cellular network access, then iMessage would be the better option. However, SMS text messages may be the better choice if you have a reliable cellular network connection. It’s up to the user to decide which option best suits their needs. SMS text messages are great for sending quick messages to anyone with a valid phone number and access to a cellular network. It is up to you to decide which service is right for you.