Short Message Service (SMS)

Also known as Text Messaging.

A messaging service that allows a user to send or receive short text messages of up to 160 characters between other mobile users on any network. Messages are sent and received via the network operator's message centre to the user's mobile phone, or from the Internet, using a SMS gateway website. If the phone is out of range or powered off, messages are stored in the network and are delivered at the next opportunity.