SMS or A2P messaging is a very popular channel amongst businesses for mostly the following reasons:-

1. Direct and personal touch  
2. Wide reach  
3. Affordability

The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2023 to 2028.  

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of sending SMS over WiFi, including how it works, its benefits, and how to do it using different devices and applications.

Understanding SMS Over WiFi

SMS have been sent using cellular network since their incept. However, with the advancement of WiFi technology, it is now possible to send and receive SMS messages over WiFi networks as well. This means that users can send text messages without relying on cellular signals, providing more flexibility and convenience.

When sending SMS over WiFi, the simple mechanism which works is that text messages are transmitted through fixed WiFi networks instead of cellular networks.  

Benefits of Sending SMS over WiFi

1. Reliability and Speed: It eliminates the need for a strong cellular signal and ensures that messages are delivered quickly and reliably. WiFi networks are generally more stable and consistent than cellular networks, especially in areas with poor cellular coverage.  ‍
2. Cost Savings: Sending SMS over WiFi can help save costs, especially for international messages, as it bypasses the need for cellular network charges.  
   While you may still incur charges from your mobile carrier for SMS messages sent over cellular networks, sending and receiving messages over WiFi does not usually involve any additional costs beyond your regular WiFi service fees. However, it's important to verify with your mobile carrier to confirm their specific pricing policies regarding SMS messages. ‍
3. Flexibility: WiFi networks are widely available, especially in public spaces such as cafes, airports, and hotels.  
   By sending SMS over WiFi, you can communicate even in areas where cellular signal strength is weak or unavailable. This is especially helpful to travellers and people living in completely remote locations with less or absolutely no network connection.

Q: Can I Send SMS Over WiFi?

A: Yes, sending SMS messages over WiFi is indeed possible. However, the feasibility of this option depends on the specific mobile device you have and the cellular network provider you are subscribed to.

The capability to send and receive SMS over WiFi varies depending on the provider's support for such features. Breaking it down:

Q: Can you send SMS texts over WiFi?

A: Yes, if your mobile device and cellular network provider support WiFi calling or texting.

Q: Can you receive SMS messages over WiFi?

A: Yes, as long as your device and network provider enable this feature.

A side note: To determine whether your device and network support SMS over WiFi, you can check the settings on your phone or consult your network provider's documentation. Certain devices and providers may have specific requirements or limitations when it comes to WiFi calling or texting.

Sending SMS Over WiFi with iPhones

If you own an iPhone, you can easily send SMS texts over WiFi using the built-in messaging app called iMessage.  
iMessage is compatible with Apple devices and allows you to send messages over WiFi without relying on cellular signals. Here's how to send SMS texts over WiFi using an iPhone:

1. Open the iMessage app, which is typically found in your regular Messages app on your iOS device.
2. Ensure that you have a SIM card with a phone number and an active subscription to a cellular network to use the SMS service.
3. Texts to non-Apple users: Simply compose a message as you would normally, and it will be sent as an SMS.  
   In this case, it doesn't matter whether the recipient uses Apple products or not.
4. Texts sent between iPhone users: The messages will be sent over the internet using WiFi, indicated by a blue bubble in the messaging thread.

While iMessage enables WiFi message delivery to other Apple customers, it requires an internet connection to function.  

Sending SMS Over WiFi with Android Phones

While WiFi calling is not available on all Android devices, most recent versions offer this option. Here's how messages are sent as SMS over WiFi using an Android phone:

1. Open the "Settings" app on your Android device and select "Wireless & Networks."
2. Look for the option to activate WiFi calling or WiFi texting. The exact location of this option may vary depending on your device and Android version.
3. Toggle the option next to "Text Messages (SMS)" to "On" after selecting the WiFi network you wish to use for texting.
4. Ensure that the recipient of your SMS message is also connected to a WiFi network to receive the message over WiFi.

Using VoIP Texting for SMS Over WiFi

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) texting allows users to send SMS messages over WiFi by utilizing an SMS service provider.  
With VoIP texting, your SMS messages are sent over the internet using WiFi, but they are received over a cellular network by the recipient. This method combines the benefits of WiFi connectivity with the widespread availability of cellular networks. Here's how to use VoIP texting for SMS over WiFi:

1. Subscribe to an SMS service provider that supports VoIP texting. The team at Message Central will be able to assist you with this.  
2. Connect with the relevant mobile network carriers through your service provider to ensure that your SMS messages are delivered to your recipients.
3. Compose your SMS message as you would normally, and it will be sent using WiFi connectivity.

The recipient does not necessarily need to have a WiFi connection to receive your message, as it will be received over a cellular network.

VoIP texting offers the advantage of: -

1. Platform independence, meaning it works across different mobile devices and carriers.  
2. Additionally, it allows for bulk SMS messaging and provides messaging tools to enhance the effectiveness of your campaigns.

Third-Party Messaging Apps for SMS Over WiFi

You can also use third party apps. They also offer additional features and functionality. Some popular third-party messaging apps for SMS over WiFi include:

1. WhatsApp: It requires a phone number for registration but offers free messaging to other WhatsApp users. WhatsApp also provides business plans for branding and automated messaging with WhatsApp business APIs. ‍
2. Viber: Viber is used for instant messaging and requires a phone number for registration. It allows users to send messages, photos, videos, and make individual and group calls. Viber also offers business messaging options. ‍
3. Facebook Messenger: Originally a part of Facebook, Messenger is now a standalone app for messaging and file sharing. It supports voice and video calls and offers additional features such as playing games with other users. ‍
4. Telegram: Telegram is a feature-rich messaging app that offers instant messaging, secret conversations, polls, and more.  ‍
5. WeChat: WeChat is a leading messaging and social media app in China with over one billion active users. It offers features such as location sharing and video conferencing.

It is important to note that some apps may have limitations, such as the need for all recipients to use the same app.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:

1. Unstable WiFi Connection: Ensure that your WiFi connection is stable and reliable. If you experience frequent disconnections or slow speeds, try switching to a different WiFi network. ‍
2. Outdated Messaging App: If you're having trouble sending or receiving SMS messages over WiFi, check if your messaging app is up to date. Outdated versions of messaging apps may have bugs or compatibility issues that can disrupt SMS delivery. ‍
3. Device Compatibility: Some older mobile devices may not support WiFi calling or texting. Consider upgrading to a newer device that offers WiFi calling capabilities. ‍
4. Network Provider Limitations: Not all cellular network providers support WiFi calling or texting. Contact your network provider to confirm whether they offer this feature and if there are any specific requirements or limitations associated with it. ‍
5. SMS App Configuration: If you're using a third-party messaging app like a WhatsApp tool for SMS over WiFi, ensure that the app is properly configured and connected to your WiFi network.  

Best Practices for Sending SMS Over WiFi

1. Reliable SMS Service Provider: Look for providers that offer features such as real-time analytics, cost-effective pricing plans, and strong customer support.  
   Message Central is one such provider. You can get in touch with their team for any of your requirements.  ‍
2. Secure Your WiFi Network: Protecting your WiFi network with a strong password and enabling encryption helps ensure the privacy and security of your SMS messages. ‍
3. Craft Clear and Concise Messages: Use clear language and avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terms.  ‍
4. Personalize Messages: Whenever possible, personalize your SMS messages by addressing recipients by name or including relevant details.  ‍
5. Time Your Messages: Avoid sending messages during late hours or at inconvenient times. Instead, schedule your messages to be sent at times when recipients are more likely to read and respond to them. ‍
6. Optimize for Different Devices: Test your messages on various devices to ensure they are displayed correctly and are easily readable. ‍
7. Monitor and Analyze Results: Track metrics such as delivery rates, open rates, and response rates to gauge the effectiveness of your messages. You can do this using an SMS dashboard.  

Conclusion

WiFi texting is transforming the way businesses communicate, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution for sending SMS messages. Stay ahead of the curve and embrace the power of WiFi texting to streamline your communication processes and connect with your audience like never before.