iMessage or SMS - what's the difference?
If you are using an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac you should know the difference between iMessage and SMS to avoid cost traps. We show you all the differences.
What is the difference between iMessage and SMS?
- The "Messages" app combines both functions on iPhone and iPad. The classic SMS is shown in green, an iMessage is highlighted in blue.
- An SMS is sent as usual over the mobile network. An iMessage message is sent over the Internet.
- Any cell phone owner can receive an SMS. However, an iMessage can only be sent to owners of Mac, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
- Your iOS device automatically detects whether the recipient can receive an iMessage. If this is not the case, a classic SMS will be sent.
- You can always see in the text box whether you are sending an iMessage or an SMS (see picture).
iPhone, iPad, Mac: iMessage can do that
IMessage has been integrated into the "Messages" app since iOS 5. Previously, you could only send SMS here, but now sending SMS is more in the background.
- With iMessage, the "Messages" app became more and more a messenger like WhatsApp, Threema or Telegram.
- Videos, pictures, locations, contacts and voice messages can be sent via the Internet. You can also see if an iMessage has already been read.
iMessage vs. SMS: The cost
If the recipient also uses iMessage, an iMessage is always sent instead of an SMS. However, make sure that you don't accidentally send a picture or even a video via SMS instead of iMessage. In this case, it can quickly become expensive.
- iMeesage: Sending messages or pictures via iMessage is completely free in the WiFi network. On the way, there are costs due to the data connection if you do not have a data flat. However, these are very low.
- SMS: The classic SMS is of course not free of charge unless you have an SMS flat rate. You can always send an SMS when your smartphone has received it.
If the recipient is not currently connected to the Internet, you can send an iMessage as an SMS afterwards.