If you’re anything like this writer, you’ll have used a desktop computer to send the occasional free SMS. Most network carriers offer a limited amount of free texts per month that users can send from their Mac or PC, but there are other sites out there offering a similar service.
Before you dive headfirst into using one of these sites, be warned: the standard of service varies wildly. If you’re looking to save a few pennies (and that really is what we’re talking about) either be prepared for your messages to go undelivered or arrive late, or test the waters thoroughly first by trying out a few competitors. Go on then – we’ll help you narrow the options down. Read on...
SMS Frog is a UK-based service that lets users send free text messages to British mobile numbers only. Similar to e-freesms, all you need to do is fill in a CAPTCHA form before being granted access to a user-friendly interface. There’s a plethora of other free sites to be found, but be careful of hidden charges. While many of them are truly free to send, they may not be free to receive – and reverse SMS charges can be incredibly expensive.
Apple has made it easy for iPhone users to send and receive iMessages directly from a Mac, and the imminent updates promise to expand this to all SMS messaging. For Android users, Pushbullet is a nice app that can mirror notifications from your device on your desktop. Features include the ability to review your message history across all devices; easily send items from your computer; save attachments on both devices; and universal copy and paste, allowing you to copy content from one device and paste it on the other. Like magic!
The beauty of using a desktop for SMS is obvious to the shaky-handed, ham-fisted among us who can’t accurately type on a small touchscreen. If you’re one of those people who texts too slowly, and you’re never far from desktop, why not try using one of the many SMS services that gives you the best of both worlds?
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