Bulk SMS technology enables businesses and organizations to send a large volume of text messages to multiple recipients simultaneously. It operates through specialized software or platforms that facilitate the creation, scheduling, and delivery of these messages.
At its core, bulk SMS technology relies on Short Message Service (SMS), a communication protocol used for sending text messages between mobile devices. Unlike individual SMS messages, which are sent from one device to another, bulk SMS allows for mass distribution of messages to predefined groups or lists of recipients.
BULK SMS also known as A2P (Application-to-Person) SMS and normal SMS, also known as P2P (Person-to-Person) SMS, differ primarily in their intended use and the sender-receiver relationship.
BULK SMS or A2P SMS refers to messages sent from an application, system, or software to an individual's mobile phone. These messages are typically used for transactional or informational purposes, such as appointment reminders, OTPs (One-Time Passwords), delivery notifications, and alerts.
Normal SMS, or P2P SMS, involves messages exchanged between individuals directly through their mobile devices. These can be personal messages, conversations, or communications between friends, family, or colleagues.
In A2P SMS, the sender is usually a business, organization, or service provider, and the receiver is an individual mobile phone user. The messages are sent in bulk to multiple recipients and are often automated.
P2P SMS involves direct communication between individuals, where both the sender and receiver are individuals with mobile phone numbers. These messages are typically non-automated and more conversational in nature.
BULK SMS / A2P SMS is used for delivering specific information, notifications, alerts, or transaction-related messages. The content is often structured, standardized, and may include links or instructions.
P2P SMS can contain a wide range of content, including personal conversations, greetings, informal messages, multimedia content like images or videos, and more varied communication types.
BULK SMS / A2P SMS may be subject to specific regulations and guidelines, especially concerning spam, data privacy, and consent. Pricing for A2P SMS may differ from normal SMS and can depend on factors such as message volume and delivery quality.
Normal SMS OR P2P SMS is typically regulated under general telecommunications guidelines and may have different pricing models based on the mobile carrier's plans or agreements.
In summary, A2P SMS is designed for automated, business-to-individual communication for specific purposes, while normal SMS (P2P SMS) involves personal, direct communication between individuals through their mobile devices.