The difference between a text message and an SMS message is that, for most practical purposes, there is no difference. SMS, or Short Message Service, is the foundational technology that enables the sending and receiving of what are commonly referred to as text messages. Therefore, an SMS message is a specific type of text message.
Understanding the Terms
While often used interchangeably, understanding the nuances of each term can clarify their relationship.
What is a Text Message?
The term "text message" is a broad, overarching term for any short, electronic message sent from one mobile device to another, or sometimes from a computer to a mobile device. This general term can encompass various messaging technologies, including:
- SMS (Short Message Service): The most basic form, primarily for sending plain text messages.
- MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service): An extension of SMS that allows for the sending of multimedia content like images, audio, video, and longer text messages.
- OTT (Over-The-Top) Messaging Apps: Internet-based messaging services like WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram, which use data connections rather than traditional cellular messaging channels.
What is an SMS Message?
SMS stands for Short Message Service. It is a specific communication protocol that allows for the exchange of short text messages between mobile devices. Historically, SMS was one of the earliest forms of mobile communication beyond voice calls.
Key characteristics of SMS include:
- Character Limit: Traditional SMS messages are limited to 160 characters (including spaces). Longer messages are often broken down into multiple SMS segments and reassembled by the receiving device.
- Plain Text: Primarily designed for plain, unformatted text.
- Cellular Network Dependent: SMS messages are sent over the cellular network's signaling channels, not the voice or data channels. This is why they can often be sent and received even in areas with poor data connectivity.
The Relationship Between SMS and Text Messages
In essence, SMS is the technology that powers the most common type of "text message." When someone says they are "sending a text," they are almost always referring to sending an SMS message (or an MMS if it includes media).
Think of it this way: all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. Similarly, all SMS messages are text messages, but not all text messages are necessarily SMS (e.g., an iMessage sent over Wi-Fi is a text message, but not an SMS).
Key Differences and Similarities
To further illustrate the relationship, consider the table below:
| Aspect | Text Message (General Term) | SMS (Short Message Service) |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship | The umbrella term for short electronic messages exchanged between devices. | A specific type of text message. |
| Technology | Can be delivered via various technologies, including cellular networks (SMS/MMS) or internet protocols (OTT apps). | Relies specifically on cellular networks and their signaling channels. |
| Content Focus | Can include plain text, multimedia (images, videos), or other rich content depending on the underlying technology. | Primarily limited to plain text (typically 160 characters per segment). |
| Cost | Varies (can be part of data plan for OTT, or charged per message for SMS/MMS without unlimited plans). | Often included in unlimited mobile plans; historically charged per message. |
| Internet Dependency | Can be internet-dependent (for OTT apps) or cellular network dependent (for SMS/MMS). | Does not require an active internet connection, only cellular network signal. |
| Common Usage | Often used interchangeably with SMS in everyday language. | The underlying technology for the most basic "texting" function on mobile phones. |
Practical Implications
- Interchangeable Use: In everyday conversation, "text message" and "SMS" are virtually interchangeable, and people will understand what you mean regardless of which term you use.
- Technology Awareness: While the end-user experience is similar, the underlying technology differs. An SMS message might go through even when your data is off, whereas a message from WhatsApp requires an internet connection.
- Historical Context: SMS paved the way for modern mobile communication, evolving into the broader concept of "text messaging" as technology advanced.
In conclusion, "text message" is the common, broader term for written messages sent via mobile devices, while "SMS" refers to the specific technology used to send plain-text messages over cellular networks. Learn more about the history and evolution of mobile messaging on Wikipedia.
