The first text message was sent nearly 30 years ago on 3rd December 1992 by Neil Papworth, saying 'Merry Christmas'. Ever since then, SMS (Short Messaging Service) has kept on evolving bringing new features and formats for the users.

Seeing a significant response from customers upon text service, the application developers introduced another messaging service called MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) which contained even more features than the SMS. In this article, we will explain what MMS is and how is it different from SMS. So let's begin:

What is MMS?

MMS, aka multimedia messaging service, refers to the type of messaging service that enables a user to send images, audio files, videos, and texts containing emojis and website links to another person. It creates great opportunities for businesses as it allows them to connect with their potential customers directly and more quickly than any other communication mode.

Difference between MMS and SMS

There are several differences between SMS and MMS, discussed as follows:

  • SMS, aka short messaging service, is the oldest messaging service that allows its users to send text messages to each other whereas, MMS enables a user to send text messages as well as media files including images, videos, emojis, etc.

  • MMS can transmit data up to 500KB i.e. 5000 characters, and a video or audio of approximately 30 seconds. Whereas, SMS is limited to just 160 characters.

  • MMS service is slightly an expensive service than SMS due to extra features, depending upon your service provider.

The only similarity between the two services is that they both need a cellular network and a mobile device to be sent from one place to another.

Benefits of MMS

MMS provides the following benefits:

  • Remembered for a longer period: MMS is remembered by people long after their transmission due to the use of images, GIFs, and videos which attract them and stay in their minds longer as compared to text messages.

  • Builds stronger relationship: SMS texts are only 160 characters which make it difficult for businesses to create an appealing message that attracts their customers. Whereas, MMS gives freedom to create a detailed message with images and videos to engage customers. Also, it improves customer experience by supporting two-way messaging that allows your customers to respond to you directly.

  • Increase message open rate: MMS creators can easily succeed in convincing their customers to open their message by adding attractive subject lines that customers can't avoid to open.

  • Device not MMS-enabled: Even if you don't know whether the receiving device is MMS-enabled or not, still the end device will receive SMS feedback containing the original multimedia message's URL that provides the intended information to the customer.

  • Personalized messages: The data scientists of Google report that 90% of large businesses enhance their growth by personalization. With MMS, you can create personalized messages including videos, images, and GIFs that can help you achieve your targets better and generate profit.

MMS Messaging in Businesses

Businesses use MMS messaging in plenty of ways to improve their touch with the customers and promote their products through captivating multimedia campaigns. The most common examples of MMS messaging in business are event brochures, marketing, and promotions, passes and tickets, restock notifications, short video tutorials, digital receipts and payment confirmation, surveys for customer satisfaction, product reviews, image and video sharing, package delivery picture proof, and many more.

MMS is not just a messaging service but it can help you transform your business completely and improve customer experience. It can increase your sales and generate greater profit for you. To run your business better and as per the market demands, it is necessary for you to understand the value of MMS messaging.