Android vs iPhone - SMS Compatibility Guide

SMS Works Everywhere

One of SMS's greatest strengths is universal compatibility. Unlike proprietary messaging apps, SMS works on every phone - Android, iPhone, or even basic flip phones.

How SMS Delivery Works

Standard SMS

When you send an SMS:

1. Message goes to your carrier

2. Carrier routes to recipient's carrier

3. Recipient's carrier delivers to their phone

This works regardless of what phone either person uses.

What Recipients See

When you send to Android users:

They receive a standard SMS

Shows your phone number as sender

They can reply normally

When you send to iPhone users:

They receive a standard SMS (green bubble)

Shows your phone number as sender

They can reply normally

Group SMS Requirements

Group SMS currently requires an Android phone to send messages. Here's why:

Why Android Only for Sending?

Android allows apps to access SMS sending capabilities. The Group SMS app uses this to send messages on your behalf.

iPhone restricts apps from sending SMS programmatically for security reasons. There's no way around this Apple limitation.

Can iPhone Users Receive Messages?

Absolutely yes. iPhone users receive your messages perfectly. They appear as regular SMS texts.

The Android requirement only applies to the phone doing the sending.

Understanding iMessage vs SMS

iMessage (Blue Bubbles)

Apple-to-Apple only

Requires internet connection

Enhanced features (reactions, read receipts)

Only between Apple devices

SMS (Green Bubbles)

Works with any phone

Uses cellular network

Basic text and media

Universal compatibility

Group SMS uses standard SMS, so messages reach everyone regardless of their device.

Common Questions

"Will my message look like spam to iPhone users?"

No. Your message comes from your real phone number, appears in their normal Messages app, and they can reply directly to you.

"Can I send to mixed Android/iPhone groups?"

Yes! SMS works the same to both. All recipients receive identical messages.

"What about international numbers?"

SMS to international numbers may incur carrier charges. Check your phone plan for international texting rates.

"Do I need both Android and iPhone?"

No. You only need an Android phone to send. Your recipients can use any type of phone.

Setup for Android Users

1. Install Group SMS from Play Store

2. Grant SMS permissions when asked

3. Log in to the web interface

4. Start sending to anyone

For iPhone Users Who Want to Send Bulk SMS

Unfortunately, Apple's restrictions prevent bulk SMS apps on iPhone. Your options:

1. Use an Android phone: Even an inexpensive Android device works

2. Borrow an Android: Set up temporarily on a friend's Android

3. Use a tablet: Some Android tablets with cellular support work

Conclusion

SMS remains the most compatible messaging method. While Group SMS requires Android for sending, your messages reach absolutely everyone - Android, iPhone, or any other phone type.

The universal reach of SMS makes it ideal for business and organizational communication where you can't control what devices people use.