In today’s digital world messaging has become an essential form of communication. Whether using iMessage WhatsApp or standard SMS you may have noticed the phrase “Sent as Text Message” when sending messages. But what does this actually mean? How is it different from other types of messages?
This topic will explain what “Sent as Text Message” means how it works and why you might see this notification when sending a message.
Understanding Text Messages vs. Instant Messaging
Before diving into the meaning of “Sent as Text Message” it’s important to understand the difference between SMS (Short Message Service) and instant messaging services like iMessage or WhatsApp.
1. SMS (Short Message Service) – Traditional Text Messaging
- SMS messages are sent through a mobile carrier’s network.
- They do not require the internet or Wi-Fi.
- Messages are limited to 160 characters per SMS.
- SMS messages can be sent to any phone regardless of the brand or operating system.
2. Instant Messaging (iMessage WhatsApp Facebook Messenger etc.)
- These messages are sent using the internet.
- They often include features like read receipts typing indicators and media sharing.
- Messages are free as long as you have an internet connection.
- They require both sender and receiver to be using the same platform (e.g. both users must have iMessage enabled for iMessages to work).
What Does “Sent as Text Message” Mean?
When you send a message and it says “Sent as Text Message” it means that your message was delivered via SMS instead of an internet-based messaging service.
This often happens for one of the following reasons:
1. The Recipient’s Phone is Offline or Has No Internet
If you’re using iMessage (on iPhones) or another internet-based messaging service and the recipient’s phone is not connected to the internet the system will automatically send the message as an SMS instead.
2. The Recipient Doesn’t Use the Same Messaging Service
For example iMessage only works between Apple devices. If you send a message to an Android user it will automatically be sent as an SMS. Similarly if you use WhatsApp but the recipient does not the message cannot be sent through WhatsApp and may be sent as a standard text.
3. iMessage or Internet Messaging Services Are Disabled
If the recipient has disabled iMessage or WhatsApp on their device all messages sent to them will be delivered as SMS instead.
4. Weak or No Wi-Fi/Cellular Data
Even if the recipient is an iPhone user if they temporarily lose internet access their device may only be able to receive SMS messages instead of iMessages.
5. Your Messaging App Settings Are Configured for SMS
Some devices have settings that automatically send messages as SMS when iMessage or other messaging services are unavailable. This ensures the message gets delivered even if internet services are down.
How to Identify a Text Message vs. an Internet Message
On iPhone (iMessage vs. SMS)
- iMessage: Sent messages appear in blue bubbles (indicating they were sent over the internet).
- SMS (Text Message): Sent messages appear in green bubbles (indicating they were sent as a standard text message).
On Android
- Most Android devices use Google Messages or another messaging app.
- SMS messages usually appear as standard text messages while RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages (which work like iMessage) appear with extra features like read receipts and typing indicators.
Does “Sent as Text Message” Mean the Message Was Delivered?
Not necessarily. “Sent as Text Message” simply means that the message was sent using SMS instead of an internet-based messaging service. However this does not guarantee that the recipient has received it.
Possible reasons why the recipient may not receive the SMS include:
- Their phone is turned off.
- They have no signal or are in airplane mode.
- Their mobile carrier is experiencing network issues.
- They have blocked your number.
Can You Disable SMS and Only Send Internet Messages?
Yes! If you only want to send messages using iMessage or another messaging app you can disable SMS fallback.
For iPhone Users:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Messages.
- Toggle Send as SMS off.
This will ensure that messages only go through iMessage. However if the recipient does not have iMessage enabled your message will not be sent at all.
For Android Users:
Android users can disable SMS in their messaging apps by adjusting the settings but this varies depending on the messaging app used.
Advantages and Disadvantages of SMS vs. Internet Messaging
Advantages of SMS (Text Messages)
✅ Works without the internet.
✅ Compatible with all mobile phones.
✅ Can reach anyone with a mobile number.
Disadvantages of SMS
❌ Limited to 160 characters per message.
❌ No advanced features like read receipts or typing indicators.
❌ May have a cost depending on your carrier.
Advantages of Internet Messaging (iMessage WhatsApp etc.)
✅ Free with an internet connection.
✅ Supports images videos and voice messages.
✅ Offers features like read receipts group chats and reactions.
Disadvantages of Internet Messaging
❌ Requires both sender and recipient to be on the same platform.
❌ Cannot be used without internet access.
“Sent as Text Message” means your message was delivered using SMS instead of an internet-based service like iMessage or WhatsApp. This typically happens when the recipient is offline using a different phone system or has messaging settings configured for SMS.
Understanding how messaging services work can help you choose the best way to communicate and ensure your messages are delivered effectively. Whether using SMS or internet-based messaging knowing the difference helps you stay connected with friends family and colleagues without confusion.
