If you’ve ever sent a message that used a GIF, audio or even an emoji, you’re already an expert in MMS (aka Multimedia Messaging Service) without knowing it. But if you want a proper definition, an explanation of how exactly MMS works and what MMS means, and more, keep on reading. 

What is MMS messaging?

MMS stands for Multimedia Messaging Service. When you send a message that includes photos, videos, audio or even emojis, you’re sending an MMS. MMS also supports rich text, which allows you to send bold, italicized and underlined fonts. MMS requires an internet connection to use and was built using the same technology as SMS (Short Message Service) so that SMS users can also send MMS.

how are MMS messages sent? with an iPhone icon that has a paper airplane on top

How are MMS messages sent?

When you send an MMS, it travels to a MMSC (multimedia messaging service center). The MMSC then notifies the SMSC (short message service center), who then sends a message to the recipient’s device that an MMS is waiting for them — and voila, your MMS has been sent.

SMS vs MMS with 2 different phones that list out differences in both SMS and MMS

SMS vs MMS

So, what is the difference between SMS and MMS? For one, MMS requires an internet connection, while SMS does not. Here’s a quick overview of their other differences:

SMS

  • Text length up to 160 characters
  • No images, video, or audio
  • Great for quick updates, alerts and links

MMS

  • Text length up to 5,000 characters
  • Images (including animated) of up to 410KB
  • Great for sending tickets, QR codes, and more

How are MMS and SMS similar?

MMS and SMS share some similarities that often lead people to confuse the two acronyms. Both use the same underlying cellular network technology and are sent using the same cellular network infrastructure. In fact, MMS was originally developed to enable SMS users to send multimedia files.

Does MMS cost more than SMS?

While some wireless carriers charge extra for MMS due to the higher data usage, Ultra Mobile does not charge for MMS, though it will use up a portion of your data.

does mms use data? with a side profile of an iphone with a wifi icon on it

Does MMS use data?

Yes, an MMS message typically uses data because it usually includes multimedia content like images and audio. Multimedia files are larger so often require a data connection or Wi-Fi to send. Typically, wireless carriers limit MMS messages to 3.75MB-5MB.

step by step instructions on how to enable MMS on iPhone on an iPhone device

How to enable MMS on iPhone

Now that you’ve learned more about MMS, you might be wondering, “how do I enable mms messaging?” Here’s how to enable MMS on iPhone:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Messages
  3. Scroll down to the SMS/MMS section
  4. Toggle MMS Messaging on 
step by step instructions on how to enable MMS on Android on an android device

How to enable MMS on Android

Here’s how to enable MMS on Android:

  1. Open the Messaging app
  2. Tap the Settings option, which may be represented by three dots or lines in the top-right corner of the screen
  3. Tap Advanced Settings or Message Settings
  4. Enable the MMS option
  5. Save changes

Are messages sent via messaging apps MMS?

Sending messages through apps like WhatsApp are considered MMS because they use internet and cellular data. There’s even a special term for these messaging services: “over the top” services or OTT. They deliver messages “over the top” of existing services through the internet. 

What to do when MMS messages aren't sending or downloading: restart your phone, check your internet connection, make sure data is on, clear out old messages

What to do when MMS messages aren’t sending or downloading

  • Restart your phone
  • Check your internet connection
  • Make sure your mobile data is on
  • Check your storage and see if you need to clear out anything, like old messages

Now you’re an expert in MMS

To recap, we’ve covered how MMS lets you send messages with photos, videos, and audio, as well as how to enable MMS and its differences from SMS. Understanding how to enable MMS on your phone means you can make the most of sending audio, images and even emojis. So next time you want to send something beyond text, you’re Ultra-ready! Ready to make the most of your phone and start sending MMS and SMS of your own? Tap the button below to find out more about Ultra Mobile and why you should make the switch!

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