Some say SMS is becoming outdated because it’s one of the oldest forms of mobile communication which we still use regularly. However, this can’t be the case if it’s being used by companies renowned for revolutionising industries with forward thinking attitudes.
Here’s five modern and industry leading companies that use SMS!
1. Google
Google uses SMS for a number of purposes. One such purpose is for Blogger Mobile, a program that lets bloggers contribute to their blog via text message. Another use is notifications for Google Calendar events via SMS. It can be hard to remember to check your calendar regularly, with SMS notifications, you never miss anything important! Perhaps the most important use of SMS within Google, is account verification.
2. Facebook
Facebook uses SMS in a couple of similar ways to Google, also using SMS for account verification. Like Google’s Blogger Mobile, Facebook provides an SMS services for people to update their profiles. You can send a text to 32665 (FBOOK) to update your status, or connect with friends without using data! You can poke friends, add friends, post photos, like a page, receive messages when friends post and more. This is handy for when you’re traveling and don’t want to turn on data roaming, but want to update friends and family about your movements.
3. Uber
Uber relies on SMS to send notifications if push notifications are disabled. This ensures that no matter what, passengers know the status of their drivers and can keep informed about their trip.
Uber also uses SMS as a means to onboard their drivers. If someone signs up to become a driver, and doesn’t get around to attending an orientation seminar, Uber sends them reminders to encourage them to get started.
4. Apple
You can set up two-step verification for your Apple ID using SMS, this way you can receive temporary verification codes via text message to verify your identity and keep your account secure.
5. Airbnb
In North America and Europe, text message notifications from Airbnb remind you when you have new Airbnb messages, reservation requests and more. SMS helps keep all the information you need about your accommodation in the palm of your hand at all times. This is especially useful when you’re travelling in foreign countries with limited, if any, internet access.
We think if all the companies at the forefront of change are still utilising SMS, there’s something to be said about the world’s most trusted medium sticking around. If you’d like to learn more about how businesses can use SMS for communication, give us a call on 1300 764 946.
Prachi Bametha
Marketing Coordinator, Esendex Australia