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Difference Between Instant Messaging and Text Messaging

Instant Messaging vs Text Messaging

Summary: Difference Between Instant Messaging and Text Messaging is that text messaging, also called SMS, is a capability that allow users to send and receive short text messages, typically fewer than 300 characters, on a phone or other mobile device or computer. While Instant messaging (IM) is a real-time Internet communications service that notifies you when one or more people are online and then allows you to exchange messages or files or join a private chat room with them.

Difference Between Instant Messaging and Text Messaging

Instant Messaging

Instant messaging (IM) is a real-time Internet communications service that notifies you when one or more people are online and then allows you to exchange messages or files or join a private chat room with them. Real time means that you and the people with whom you are conversing are online at the same time. Some IM services support voice and video conversations. For IM to work, both parties must be online at the same time. Also, the receiver of a message must be willing to accept messages.

To use IM, you may have to install instant messenger software on the computer or device, such as a smart phone, you plan to use. Some operating systems, such as Windows, include an instant messenger. Few IM programs follow IM standards. To ensure successful communications, all individuals on the contact list need to use the same or a compatible instant messenger.

Text Messaging

A mobile device with text messaging, also called SMS (short message service), capability allows users to send and receive short text messages, typically fewer than 300 characters, on a phone or other mobile device or computer. Text messaging services typically provide users with several options for sending and receiving messages:

  • Mobile to Mobile: send a message from your mobile device to another mobile device.
  • Mobile to E-Mail: send a message from your mobile device to an e-mail address anywhere in the world.
  • Web to Mobile: send a message from a text messaging Web site to a mobile device, or request that a Web site alert a mobile device with breaking news and other updates, such as sports scores, stock prices, and weather forecasts.
  • Mobile to Provider: send a message by entering a four- or five-digit number assigned to a specific content or wireless service provider, followed by the message, such as a vote for a television program contestant.

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