12.01.2019

Messaging for communication purposes is becoming increasingly widespread all over the world. Today, written messages can instantly be delivered through texting or short messaging services and instant messaging. Both means give the perfect opportunity to directly communicate with your family, friends, and colleagues. However, there is a difference between texting and instant messaging. To find out what they are, continue reading this article.

Text Messaging vs. Instant Messaging

ext Messaging App and an Instant Messaging App

Both text messaging and instant messaging services are similar. They add more and more features that make texting and instant messaging resemble each other.

The main difference between these 2 communication means is that text messaging is a mobile phone service, which is, as a rule, limited to 160 characters. As for instant messaging, this is typically a computer session featuring a longer message size.

When a text message is transmitted, the session is typically over. However, the recipient can send its response and keep back-and-forth going throughout the day. After an instant messaging is started, the connection isn’t over until the session is ended by one of the parties.

It’s interesting to note that:

What is Text Messaging?

To text message, you should send a short typed message that doesn’t exceed 160 characters from one mobile phone user to another. All mobile platforms are supported. The short message service is text only, while the multimedia messaging service supports images and video. There exist various text messaging apps for Android and iOS.

What is Instant Messaging?

Instant messaging is the exchange of text messages in real-time between 2 or more people logged into an instant messaging or IM service. Instant messaging can be characterized as more interactive as compared to email as it allows to send messages immediately. As to email, it can wait in a mail server for seconds or minutes.

Instant messaging became popular after Israeli-based ICQ launched its services in 1996. The traditional SMS text message is now passé. People more and more often choose instant text messaging as a means of communication these days. Instant text messaging apps have grown to offer rich services and interaction with each other, ranging from free text messaging to voice and video calling, and photo and file sharing.

Pinngle, WhatsApp, Viber, WeChat, Line are among the most popular instant text messaging apps these days. Each of these apps come with their own unique features to stand out from the crowd. E.g., with Pinngle, you can make 100% free international calls to any landline and mobile number by just earning credits on the app. Moreover, Pinngle offers lower data usage and ultimate privacy protection for users.  

Today, you can find a variety of messaging apps on the market that you can use to stay in touch with your family, friends, and colleagues. Take the time to research well and choose the one that best suits your needs.

6 Replies to “What is the Difference Between a Text Messaging App and an Instant Messaging App?”

  1. I received a message from you on sun 1st telling meto turn offSMS,, but unfortunately I deleted it by mistake, so what should I do?

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