Text messaging and instant messaging are similar because they are both used to send text messages. However, text messaging ("texting") uses the cellular phone service, whereas instant messaging employs the Internet. Text messages are typically limited to 160 characters, but instant messages can be longer.
After a text message is transmitted, the session is essentially ended even though the recipient can respond and keep the back-and-forth going all day. When an instant messaging session is started, it typically remains connected until ended by one of the parties. Both text messaging and instant messaging are often called just plain "messaging." See text messaging, instant messaging, SMS and chat.
Text Messages Can Initiate ThingsAnother difference is that texting can activate some function by sending a word or two to an organization that has been assigned a coded destination address (see short code).
FAQs
Text messaging and instant messaging are similar because they are both used to send text messages. However, text messaging ("texting") uses the cellular phone service, whereas instant messaging employs the Internet. Text messages are typically limited to 160 characters, but instant messages can be longer.
What is the major difference between text messaging and instant messaging instant messaging takes place in real time? ›
Originally the term "instant messaging" was distinguished from "text messaging" by being run on a computer network instead of a cellular/mobile network, being able to write longer messages, real-time communication, presence ("status"), and being free (only cost of access instead of per SMS message sent).
Do all cell phones receive text messages? ›
Nearly every cellular phone in use in the world can receive text messages. Most wireless carriers include text messaging in their standard plans.
Is text messaging considered internet? ›
SMS does not require an internet connection, whereas MMS relies on a data connection for media transmission. Generally, MMS messages are more expensive to send compared to SMS messages.
Is texting the same as sending a message? ›
Is Messaging the Same As Texting? Long story short, these two messaging options are not the same. On a basic level, texting requires a cellular network but not an internet connection, while instant messaging requires only an internet connection.
Is texting the same as instant messaging? ›
Text messaging and instant messaging are similar because they are both used to send text messages. However, text messaging ("texting") uses the cellular phone service, whereas instant messaging employs the Internet. Text messages are typically limited to 160 characters, but instant messages can be longer.
Why would you use Messenger instead of texting? ›
Why do people use Facebook Messenger instead of text? People may prefer Facebook Messenger for its integration with the social network, the ability to send media-rich messages, make voice and video calls, and communicate globally without additional costs. Is Facebook Messenger safer than texting? No.
Should my phone be on MMS or SMS? ›
SMS is best for short messages such as reminders, notifications, and promotional offers. MMS is better for longer or more complex messages like images, videos, audio clips, or links to external websites.
Can you receive texts without data? ›
You can send and receive text (SMS) and multimedia (MMS) messages through the Messages app . Messages are considered texts and don't count toward your data usage. Your data usage is also free when you turn on chat features.
Can text messages be sent without internet? ›
However, the basic functionality of sending and receiving text messages via SMS remains unaffected by the availability of data services. Read also, The 9 Best Messaging Apps for Android in 2024.
It is a way for people to communicate with each other privately, without their messages being visible to the public.
Why use a messaging app instead of texting? ›
Advantages of instant messaging
Instant messaging apps allow you to send unlimited amounts of texts to recipients all over the world, completely free of charge. You can also attach images, videos, PDFs, or any kind of file.
Does a message deliver if it says sent as text message? ›
No, “sent as text message” does not necessarily mean “delivered” but rather that the message was successfully sent via the regular mobile network routes. SMS does not always provide delivery receipts. That being said, it is highly likely, though not guaranteed, that the message was successfully delivered.
What is the difference between a text message and a SMS message? ›
What's the Difference Between SMS and Text Messages? The first and biggest thing to know about the difference between SMS and text messages is that there is no difference. SMS, or Short Message Service, is a form of text message that's sent from one device to another.
What are some of the differences between chat and IM instant messaging? ›
Unlike chatrooms with many users engaging in multiple and overlapping conversations, IM sessions usually take place between two users in a private, back-and-forth style of communication.
What is the difference between a text and a DM? ›
No, a direct message (DM) is not the same as a text. While texting involves sending a message via SMS to your contacts, a DM is communicated through social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
What is the most accurate statement about instant messaging, IM, and text messaging? ›
Final answer: The most accurate statement is that text messaging requires a short message service (SMS) supplied by a cellphone service provider. Text messaging is a phone-based service while instant messaging is internet-based and not restricted solely to desktop computers.
Text Messages Can Initiate ThingsAnother difference is that texting can activate some function by sending a word or two to an organization that has been assigned a coded destination address (see short code).