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What is MMS messaging?
Ever tried to send an image through text and it failed? There’s a solution for that! Every day, over 6 billion messages are sent in different ways, but today, we’re looking at MMS messaging.
Unlike regular SMS, which only lets you send text, MMS messaging lets you send pictures, videos, and audio files. This makes it a better tool for businesses to connect with customers.
Phones handle MMS differently. On iPhones, media messages are sent through iMessage when both users have Apple devices. If not, the phone switches to MMS. On Android, apps like Google Messages or Samsung Messages are used to send MMS, and the experience can vary slightly depending on the brand.
When used the right way, MMS can help you promote offers, share product visuals, and connect with customers in a more engaging way. In this blog, we’ll break down how MMS works on iPhone and Android devices — and why it matters for your business.
How MMS Messaging Works on iPhone and Android Devices
Now that you know what MMS messaging is, let’s talk about how it functions across different devices. While both iPhones and Android devices let you send pictures, videos, and voice notes, the way they handle MMS isn’t exactly the same.
Knowing how MMS works on your device can help you avoid delivery issues—especially if you’re using it for things like marketing or customer
MMS Messaging on iPhone
When your customer uses an iPhone and you message them from another iPhone, it goes through iMessage and shows up in a blue bubble.
But if they’re not using an iPhone and you use an iPhone to send the message, your phone switches to MMS, and those messages show up in a green bubble. This means that iMessage and MMS on an iPhone are not the same thing.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- While iMessage can be sent with both WiFI and mobile data, MMS needs mobile data. Even if you’re connected to Wi-Fi, the message won’t be sent unless mobile data is on.
- If your customer has a poor network or has MMS turned off in their settings, the message might not go through
- Sometimes, they’ll need to turn on the MMS option in their settings. They can check if MMS is enabled by going to Settings > Messages > MMS Messaging.
- If it still doesn’t work, restarting the phone usually helps or you can check here for other solutions that you can offer to your clients.
Multimedia messaging service on Android
Your customers using Android phones don’t have iMessage. Instead, they use apps like Google Messages or Samsung Messages to receive multimedia messages.
While the look may different slightly between brands like Samsung, Tecno, or Infinix, the process is the same: open the messaging app, add your media, and send.
Keep in mind:
- MMS requires mobile data, not Wi-Fi.
- If the message doesn’t send, check your signal or try turning your data on and off.
- Some Android phones may need you to set up something called APN settings for MMS to work properly (you can get this from your mobile carrier).
No matter the phone, Android or iPhone, MMS works the same way: it lets you send more than just text. This means your message can be seen clearly and effectively by any customer, on any device.
What Makes MMS Messaging Different on iPhone vs Android?
Even though both phones let you send media, the way it works on iPhone and Android isn’t the same. Let’s break down the 6 biggest differences:
1. How messages are sent
If you’re sending media to a customer with an iPhone, your phone uses iMessage. But if the customer uses a different phone, it switches to MMS. For Android users, all media messages go through MMS. This way, your content still reaches them clearly
2. Apps used for texting
iPhones use the built-in Messages app, while Android phones use apps like Google Messages or Samsung Messages. This affects how your customers receive media. Some apps allow bigger files or more media types, so the experience may vary slightly.
3. Setup process
On iPhones, turning on mobile data is usually enough for MMS to work. But if your customer uses an Android phone, they may need to set up something called an APN before they can receive your media messages.
4. Internet vs. mobile data
To reach your customers with MMS, mobile data must be on. iPhones use Wi-Fi or data for iMessage, but MMS needs mobile data. Android phones also need data for MMS, or the message won’t deliver.
5. Message appearance
On iPhone, MMS in messaging shows up as green bubbles. iMessages are blue. On Android, all messages usually look the same unless it is customized.
6. Media limits
If you send lots of pictures or videos to customers, keep file size in mind. iMessage allows large files, up to 100MB. But MMS on an iPhone is limited to around 3–5MB. On Android, it’s often even smaller, sometimes just 1–3MB, depending on the phone and network.
While both iPhones and Android phones use multimedia messaging, the experience isn’t exactly the same. Understanding these small but important differences can help ensure you get the best results, especially when using MMS for business or daily communication.
Benefits of MMS Messaging for Business Marketing
MMS texts don’t just about add a different touch to your business messages, it delivers real results for your business. From getting more replies to increasing link clicks, here’s why MMS is worth using.
1. It grabs attention and drives action
People scroll past plain text, but a bold image or short video makes them stop. If done right, using MMS can lead to a boost in customers responses compared to SMS.
2. It improves link clicks
With a 160-character limit, every word counts. Your message should be easy to read at a glance—no fluff, no confusion. Get straight to the point, highlight the value, and make sure the offer or update is crystal clear. If it’s not immediately understandable, most customers will simply ignore it.
3. It helps your message land better
A well-placed video or voice note can explain a product or offer quickly without needing long paragraphs. With TruText, you can send this kind of content easily, keeping things short and effective.
4. It works across devices, so no one’s left out
Whether your customers use iPhones or Android phones, MMS keeps your message looking clean and professional, no broken links or missing images. MMS isn’t just a nicer way to message, it helps you market smarter. And with TruText, you have the tools to make it simple.
Best MMS messaging practices for businesses
Want more replies, clicks, or bookings from your messages? These tips will help your MMS campaigns get better results:
1. Use sharp, clean visuals
Blurry photos or low-quality videos can hurt your brand. Clear media helps your message look professional and builds trust fast.
Not sure what works best for MMS? Check out this complete guide to multimedia messaging to learn how to create high-impact visuals that deliver.
2. Keep it focused
Say one thing at a time. If you’re promoting a sale, highlight that alone. Simple messages get read. Cluttered ones get ignored.
3. Add persuasive language
Phrases like “Almost gone,” “Book your spot,” or “Tap to claim” create urgency and guide your customers toward action.
4. Make it work on all devices
But if that’s not possible, it’s important to make sure your content displays properly on any device. A message that looks great on an iPhone but breaks on Android can cost you leads. That’s why using a reliable business texting platform like TruText is a smart move. It supports both SMS and MMS, so your messages show up clearly across all phone types—no matter what your customers use.
5. Time it right
Messages sent early mornings and evenings usually perform better. Your message is more likely to be seen and acted on
6. Don’t flood their inbox
One or two useful messages a week is enough. You want to stay helpful, not get muted.
When it’s done right, MMS is more than just a message—it’s a reminder, a conversation starter, and a way to connect. And with TruText making sure it looks great on any device, your message is always delivered the way you intended.
SMS vs. MMS: Which One to Use?
When it comes to business messaging, choosing between SMS and MMS depends on what you’re trying to say—and how you want it to land. Both are effective ways to reach customers, but each has its own strengths.
Want a full breakdown of the key differences? Check out this guide to SMS vs. MMS to see which format is the right fit for your message.
When to Use SMS vs. MMS for Different Business Needs
SMS (Short Message Service) is perfect for sending brief, text-based information. It’s great for things like appointment reminders, simple promotions, or updates. If all you need is to communicate a quick message or instruction, SMS works just fine.
However, if you need to send images, videos, or audio to explain something more clearly or engage your customers, MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) is the way to go. MMS on iPhone and Android can help you create a richer experience, especially when you want to showcase a product or service with visuals.
For example, if you’re running a business and want to send a coupon, a picture of a new product, or a video demo, MMS would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re sending a quick text about an order status or a quick thank you message, SMS would be faster and easier.
Cost Comparison Between SMS and MMS
When it comes to cost, SMS tends to be cheaper than MMS. Sending SMS messages usually costs less because they’re just text-based, and the size of the message is smaller. On the other hand, MMS messages include media files so they usually cost more to send.
The cost can also depend on your mobile carrier. For instance, when sending multimedia messages on iPhone or Multimedia messaging service Android, some carriers may charge extra for MMS, while others may include it as part of their standard text message package. It’s important to check with your provider to know the exact costs, as these charges can vary based on your plan.
Boost your business with MMS messaging
MMS messaging gives you a smarter way to connect with people. Now that you understand how it’s different from SMS and how it works across both iPhone and Android, you’re in a better place to decide how to use it for your business.
If your goal is to grab attention, share visual content, or send more personal updates, MMS is the clear choice. It helps you stand out and keeps your audience engaged.
And with TruText, you don’t have to worry about tech barriers. It supports both SMS and MMS, so you can send the right message; plain or media-rich to any device with ease.
Start your 14-day free trial today and see how simple business texting can be.
