The History of SMS Since Its Launch in 1992

Created in 1992, SMS has become an integral part of our society. With the development of new technologies, it was initially not intended for the general public. Now, 29 years after its creation, it has become an essential element in the growth of many businesses.

Everything You Need to Know About the History of SMS

It All Started in 1992

On December 3, 1992, now 29 years ago, British engineer Neil Papworth, then 22 years old, working for Vodafone, sent the first SMS in history.

Its content was simple. “Merry Christmas!”

How Was It Sent?

It was sent from a computer connected to the mobile network, because at the time, phones did not yet have a keyboard. It was sent to a mobile phone weighing over 2 kg, the Orbitel 901.

Furthermore, SMS was not initially intended for the general public. It was meant solely as an internal communication tool within companies.

1994: The Launch of a Mobile Phone with a Keyboard

Two years after this major technological breakthrough, Nokia launched the first mobile phone with a keyboard that allowed users to send SMS messages.

SMS in 1997

Despite this, it wasn’t until 1997 that the first phone plans offering SMS became available. Before that, carriers didn’t believe in it and saw no commercial value in the technology.

When they developed this service, and it became possible to communicate regardless of the recipient’s carrier, SMS was widely adopted by the public.

What Were the Characteristics of SMS?

Initially, SMS messages were charged per unit — 1 franc per SMS. In addition, the maximum number of characters was 160. This gradually gave rise to the SMS languages we know today!

Although expensive, it was still cheaper than the cost of a phone call.

What About SMS in the 2000s?

SMS Network Saturation

In 2000, the global mobile network reached saturation. At the turn of the new year, networks were overwhelmed as several million SMS messages were sent simultaneously.

Unlimited SMS Plans

Following this, unlimited SMS plans were developed. With this announcement, many businesses became aware of the potential of this communication channel. The sending of bulk SMS therefore grew significantly.

The Arrival of MMS

In 2002, MMS made its appearance. It became possible to send multimedia files (photos/videos) via messaging.

In 2008, it became possible to send SMS messages from a mobile phone to a landline. Moreover, if the landline was unable to display the message, it could be listened to instead.

The Story of SMS

In the years that followed, SMS grew increasingly important and has now become part of our everyday habits. With its market reaching maturity, it is no longer just a simple means of communication — it has become a true marketing and commercial tool, and even a payment method.

Nearly 30 years after its creation, SMS remains a central communication tool for businesses reaching their customers. With a read rate of over 95%, it has firmly established itself among the most impactful communication methods available to businesses.