SMS or short message service is the most commonly used mode of communication for personal and business needs. It is quick, cost-effective, and convenient to use. Almost all people worldwide use mobile phones, and it is only natural that SMS is the preferred mode of communication. But apart from the convenience of SMS, text on messenger apps such as Facebook Messenger have also come into play for text marketers. The average amount of time people spend on various messaging apps worldwide has increased by 30% compared to 2019, and it currently stands at 4.2 hours per day.
The time people spend on Messenger has exceeded the length of a traditional working day. The widespread use of smartphones has created new opportunities for businesses to connect with potential customers on the platform where they spend much time and explore SMS in messenger options. The integration of text messaging and Messager has become a popular way to reach out to customers and potential prospects. Thus, it is also crucial for businesses to understand how SMS to Messenger works and its purpose to take advantage of its benefits fully.
How Does SMS to Messenger Work?
In 2016, Facebook announced that its Messenger app could send and receive SMS text messages. Facebook users then have the option to access their text messages through their message apps. There is no need to leave the app and open another if you want to send or read the SMS that you have received.
SMS to Messenger is a feature that allows SMS messaging to be integrated with messaging platforms like Facebook Messenger. With this feature, users can receive and respond to SMS messages within the Messenger app without needing a separate SMS app. Users must sync their mobile phone number with their Messenger account to use this feature.
The SMS to Messenger feature automatically displays incoming SMS messages within the Messenger interface, allowing users to read and reply to them like regular chat messages. The feature works both ways, allowing users to send SMS messages to contacts who don’t use Messenger or the feature, and those recipients will receive SMS messages on their phones.
What is the Purpose of SMS to Messenger?
The purpose of SMS to Messenger is to provide a more convenient way for people to communicate with each other. Combining the two platforms allows users to access and respond to text messages without switching between multiple applications. It also eliminates the need for SMS apps, as all messages can be accessed in one place.
You will use Facebook Messenger for business and texting to communicate with your customers. It is vital to assess your target audience and determine which method of interaction they prefer with your small business. Although you can prioritize one method, consider all of them thoroughly. It is essential to allow individuals to reach out through their preferred channel, whether social media, texting, or another option.
Furthermore, SMS to Messenger uses Messenger’s advanced features like read receipts, media sharing, and group chats to enhance the messaging experience for users who prefer Messenger as their primary messaging platform.
Why Does SMS to Messanger Exist?
SMS to Messenger existed because Facebook recognized the need for businesses to be able to connect with their consumers on a messaging platform. People were already spending an increasing amount of time using messaging apps. It was natural for businesses to want to leverage the same platform and use it as another channel for communication.
SMS to Messenger also exists because of the convenience of text messaging apps. It allows users to respond quickly without needing a separate SMS app. It provides a unified platform for users to access and respond to text messages like regular chat messages.
What are the Advantages of SMS to Messenger?
There are several advantages to using SMS to messenger features. Messaging, such as SMS or instant messages, allows people to communicate directly with businesses and gain more confidence in their purchase decisions by knowing where their money is going. Here are some of the benefits of combining SMS and Messenger.
- High Open Rates – SMS has a higher open rate than other marketing channels. The open rate for SMS is 98%, and people usually respond to a text within the first 3 minutes of receiving it. While Facebook Messenger lags slightly behind SMS with an 80% open rate, it still performs well. To put it into perspective, the average email open rate is only 18%. Using both these channels together can increase your open rate significantly.
- Cost-Effective – SMS and Messenger are both cost-effective methods of communication when compared to other marketing channels. To send SMS messages, you must select an SMS provider that is both effective and compliant. Some programs may require a monthly or yearly payment in addition to the costs of sending SMS messages, which can vary depending on the country. Other providers may only charge you for the services you use. SMS messages can be cost-effective to achieve a high Return on Investment (ROI).
- Compliance – Sending messages to prospects and customers is subject to strict rules on both SMS and Facebook Messenger. To send SMS messages to customers, you need to obtain their permission. Customers can opt-in to receive your texts in various ways, such as by filling out a sign-up form on your website, participating in a text-to-win contest, or agreeing to receive promotional messages during order confirmation. Contacting someone through Facebook Messenger as a business requires following the 24-hour rule. It means a business can only message someone after receiving a message from them first. If the business replies within 24 hours, they can continue to message the person.
- Automation Options – Automated SMS messages can save time and improve customer relationships. Set specific triggers in advance that will prompt the message to be sent. It could be a greeting message when someone signs up for your newsletter, an automated thank you for subscribing, or even a reminder about upcoming events. Automating these messages takes the pressure off remembering to send them manually every time.
- Content Possibilities – Text messages are limited to 160 characters, but you can include more information with Facebook Messenger. For example, you can send video and audio content, images, GIFs, website links, and even polls in a message.
- Tracking and Analytics – Your SMS provider should have a feature that allows you to track the performance of your SMS messages. Depending on the software you select, you can monitor metrics such as the total number of messages sent, how many were opened and clicked, the costs involved, and more. You can also quickly download reports for analysis.
What are the Disadvantages of SMS to Messenger?
SMS to Messenger has several disadvantages that businesses should consider if they plan to use it as part of their marketing campaign. Here are some cons of the SMS to Messenger.
- Limited Reach – The SMS to Messenger feature requires the recipient to have Facebook Messenger to receive the messages. If they don’t have Messenger or don’t use the feature, they won’t get the SMS messages. It limits communication effectiveness, particularly when trying to reach a wider audience or contacts who opt for different messaging apps.
- Privacy Concerns – To use SMS on Messenger, you must share your messages through a different platform. It raises privacy concerns because Facebook servers will handle your messages, potentially affecting your data security and privacy. Therefore, consider the privacy implications of using SMS on Messenger. Then, decide whether you are comfortable allowing a third-party service provider to handle and store your SMS messages.
- Dependence on the Internet – For SMS to Messenger to work, the sender and recipient need a stable Internet connection or active data plan. When there’s no reliable data coverage or during network outages, SMS messages may not be timely delivered or received.
How to Enable Mobile Device to Send and Receive SMS from Messenger?
Facebook Messenger for Android now allows you to send and receive SMS and MMS messages in addition to Facebook conversations. It means you no longer have to switch between different messaging apps. You can even set it as your default messaging app. Here is how to enable your mobile device to send and receive SMS to Messenger.
- Open your Facebook Messenger app on your Android device.
- Go to the Settings menu and tap “SMS.”
- Tap “Turn On SMS” to enable this feature. You will be prompted with a message asking for permission to access your SMS messages to send and receive SMS from Messenger.
- Tap “Allow” to give the app access, then tap “OK” to confirm.
You can also make Messenger your default SMS app by tapping “Set as Default SMS App.” It replaces any pre-existing messaging apps on your device. Facebook Messenger assigns different colors to distinguish between SMS conversations (purple) and Facebook conversations (blue). Facebook assures users that Messenger will not gather or retain SMS conversations or data on its servers.
How to Send Emojis from SMS to Messenger?
Emojis are a fun way to add personality and emotion to written messages. You can now send emojis from SMS to Messenger, making expressing yourself in conversations with your contacts easier. Here’s how:
- Open the Facebook Messenger app on your mobile device and select the conversation where you want to send an emoji. You can also start a new conversation and put the mobile number of the recipient.
- Tap the smiley face icon at the left of the message field to open the emoji picker. Browse through the categories and select an emoji you want to send.
- The emoji will be added to your message field.
- Tap “Send” when you’re done composing your message.
The recipient will receive both emojis and text messages sent from your phone. To send an emoji to someone who does not use Messenger or SMS, copy the symbol and paste it into your message.
How to Send Website Links from SMS to Messenger?
You can also use SMS to Messenger to send website links for promotional messages. It helps you share content quickly with your contacts and direct them to relevant web pages. Here’s how:
- Open the conversation where you want to send a link in Facebook Messenger. You may also open a new conversation and add the mobile number of the recipient if you want to send it as an SMS.
- Tap the “+” icon next to the message field and select “Share Link.” Enter the website URL you want to share and tap “Send.”
- The recipient will receive the link in their conversation window, either through Messenger or SMS. If they click on it, it will open up a web page with your shared content.
Can You Send Marketing Materials from SMS to Messenger?
Yes. You can send marketing materials from SMS to Messenger. It is an effective way to reach potential customers and keep them informed about your products and services. To send promotional messages through Facebook Messenger, you must have a valid Facebook Page linked with your business. Then, you can create promotional messages in the Messages tab of your Page’s Settings menu.
You must also be aware of Facebook’s compliance rules regarding marketing to take advantage of various SMS marketing benefits. For businesses to contact you on Facebook Messenger, you must message them first. Once you initiate contact, the business has 24 hours to respond. If you reply within that 24-hour window, a new 24-hour window will begin from the time you send your response. If you violate these rules, Facebook will send you a warning. If you persist in contacting your customers, your page will be blocked.
Is SMS to Messenger Free?
No. While you don’t have to pay to send messages on Facebook Messenger, SMS sent from Messenger will be charged according to the prevailing mobile network rates. You may also incur data charges if you send large files or media (photos, videos, etc.) through Messenger. The exact cost depends on your mobile operator, plan, and device. Check with your carrier for more details.
SMS on Messenger can help you stay in touch with your contacts and update them about essential matters. However, it’s important to consider the potential privacy risks and cost implications before using this service. Ensure you know all the benefits and drawbacks of sending messages from SMS to Messenger before deciding if it’s right for you.