How Long Can an SMS Message Be?
SMS, or Short Message Service, was originally designed with a length limit of 160 characters. This limit dates back to the early development of mobile standards, when networks, phones, and data storage were far more limited than they are today. The idea was to create a messaging system that could be delivered reliably across various devices and carriers, all working with very basic technology compared to modern smartphones.
What Happens if You Go Over 160 Characters?
If you need to exceed the 160-character threshold, most SMS platforms today handle it seamlessly by breaking your text into multiple segments of up to 160 characters each. This process is known as “message concatenation.” Even though your single long message is technically sent as several shorter parts, the recipient’s phone typically pieces them back together, displaying the full content as a single, continuous text on their screen. This ensures the end user enjoys a smooth reading experience, without the confusion of multiple fragmented messages.
Character Encoding and Language Considerations
It’s also worth noting that the type of characters you use can affect the available message length. The original 160-character limit applies to the standard GSM-7 character set, which includes most common Latin letters, numbers, and basic punctuation. However, if you use characters outside this set—such as certain symbols or non-Latin scripts—your message might be sent using a different encoding, often Unicode, which reduces the maximum length per segment. When Unicode characters are used, a single SMS segment can shrink to as few as 70 characters. This is important to remember if you plan to communicate in languages that require accented letters or non-Latin characters.
Cost and Delivery Considerations
Sending messages that exceed 160 characters means you’re technically sending multiple SMS segments, which can impact your costs depending on your pricing plan. It’s smart to be mindful of length to avoid unexpected charges, especially if you’re running large campaigns. Keeping your messages direct and to the point can help maintain both readability and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, shorter messages tend to have higher engagement rates, as recipients can understand and act on the content more quickly.
Practical Tips for Length Management
To make the most of your SMS campaigns, consider writing drafts and then fine-tuning the language to fit within 160 characters whenever possible. Focus on the core message, remove unnecessary words, and use clear, simple language. By keeping it concise, you improve the chances that your customers will read and absorb your message immediately. When you do need longer content, remember that concatenation can handle it smoothly, but it’s best to know your audience’s language needs and your own budget constraints.
A Partner That Simplifies SMS Communication
If you’re seeking a provider that understands these nuances and makes it easy to manage message length, encoding, and delivery, Mobile Message offers a platform designed to handle all these details in the background. With robust features that keep your messages looking neat and professional, and straightforward pricing that ensures transparency, you can focus on crafting great content and building stronger customer relationships.
