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How Is SMS And MMS Affecting Your Bill?

  • shafirar
  • Jun 13
  • 3 min read

Even in a world filled with messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage, SMS and MMS remain essential tools for everyday communication. Why? Because they work straight from your phone. No apps, no logins, no internet required as long as you have a signal.

So, what exactly are SMS and MMS, how are they different from app-based messages, and when should you use each one?


What Is SMS?

SMS (Short Message Service) is the classic text message. It:

  • Lets you send text-only messages up to 160 characters

  • Uses your mobile signal, not the internet

  • Does not require any app, account, or data connection

  • Works with every mobile phone, even older models

When you send a standard text through your phone’s default messaging app (not WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.), that’s SMS.


What Is MMS?

MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) is a type of message that allows:

  • Images

  • Videos

  • Audio files

  • Text over 160 characters

Like SMS, MMS messages are also sent directly from your mobile phone, without needing a separate app. However, they use your mobile network (and a small amount of data), but they don’t rely on Wi-Fi or third-party apps to work.


Not the Same as WhatsApp or Messenger

This is a common confusion: If you're using WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or any similar app, you're not using SMS or MMS.


To know what exactly SMS and MMS are, and how they differ from app-based messaging, we first need to understand that they are only active through the built-in messaging apps on your phone.


Here’s the difference:

  • SMS = Text sent via your phone’s built-in messaging system without the use of internet (Wi-Fi or data) if there is adequate signal.

  • MMS = Sent via your phone’s built-in messaging system that uses the internet (eg. Photos & videos).

  • App Messages = Anything sent over the internet, only to users of the same app


When Should You Use SMS or MMS?

Use SMS or MMS when:

  • You’re in an area with no Wi-Fi or weak mobile data

  • You want to send a simple, universal message

  • You're texting someone with a non-smartphone or limited app access

They’re the most reliable form of communication when it counts.


Why is this Important to Your Mobile Plan?

Many mobile plans separately itemize SMS and MMS. SMS may be unlimited or have a quota while MMS often incurs extra charges even when SMS is free.

At E.Tel:

  • All our mobile plans include unlimited local SMS to standard Australian numbers

  • Many plans include unlimited local MMS as well, ideal for sending photos and longer messages

And since these are part of your standard phone service, there’s no need to install, update, or troubleshoot an app just to send a message.


Final Verdict: Know the Difference, Avoid Surprises

Understanding the difference between SMS, MMS, and messaging apps isn’t just about technology, but it’s about avoiding unexpected charges and making smarter choices with your mobile usage.

Most E.Tel plans include unlimited SMS and MMS, so you can send texts and media without extra costs. But if your plan charges for MMS or you send lots of media, apps like WhatsApp or Messenger over Wi-Fi may be cheaper.

The key is knowing what kind of message you're sending and how it’s counted on your plan. That way, you’re always in control and never surprised by your bill.

 
 
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