What is MMS?

If you’ve ever sent a cat video with multiple emojis, you’re already an expert in MMS. But if you want a proper definition, an explanation of how it exactly works, how it differs from SMS, tips on how to enable MMS and more, keep on reading. It’s time to get schooled on all things MMS. 

What is MMS messaging? 

Let’s cut the suspense with a simple definition: MMS stands for Multimedia Messaging Service. They are the messages that handle sending your photos, videos, audio – even your emojis. It also supports rich text, which allows you to send bold, italicized, underlined fonts for all the drama. MMS was introduced in 2002 to accommodate the different kinds of media people wanted to message each other (cough, cough… reaction GIFs).

MMS vs. SMS: What’s the difference? 

As stated above, MMS stands for Multimedia Messaging Service, while SMS stands for Short Message Service. SMS can only deliver text-based messages around 160 characters long (perfect for a passive aggressive “K”). MMS handles both text and media with no limit on length. It handles larger files than SMS, so feel free to send grandma all those baby photos she’s been asking for. 

It should be noted that MMS is only compatible with smartphones and requires an internet connection. Also, some wireless carriers charge more for MMS than SMS (we don’t, btw), so share memes with caution if you’re over your data limit.  

How are MMS messages sent? 

Heads up – more acronyms are coming your way. 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. It’s a lot of messages and notifications but that “Elmo Rise” GIF sure is worth it.

Does MMS use data?

Yes, MMS requires cellular data. It also requires more than an SMS because it transfers large files. Due to this, many carriers limit MMS messages to 3.75MB-5MB… that way, no one is sending full length movies back and forth. 

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

Here’s a simple checklist you can use to help speed up your MMS messages:

• Restart your phone: Cliche, but always a great place to start. 
• Check your internet connection: MMS uses Wi-Fi, so if the signal is weak your messages may not go through.
• Make sure your mobile data is on: If not, make sure to enable it. 
• See if you have low storage: Spring clean your photos, apps and other files on your phone. This tip will also help your phone work better overall.
• Delete old messages: It’s time to clear out those five-year-old text message chains clogging up your storage.

Are messages sent via messaging apps MMS?

Sending messages through apps like WhatsApp or Facebook messenger are actually considered MMS because they use internet and cellular data. There’s even a special term for them (another acronym incoming): “over the top” services or OTT. They deliver messages “over the top” of existing services through the internet. But if you use an online chat service like Google Message, you can send and receive SMS and MMS messages online.

How to enable MMS messaging

How to enable MMS on iPhone

For an iPhone, most have MMS already enabled. In case your thumb slips, go into Settings > Messages, scroll down and then toggle MMS on. 

How to enable MMS on an Android phone

For Android, it’s either a network connectivity problem or a software issue. To check the network connection, go into Settings > Wireless and Network Settings and tap “Mobile Network” to make sure MMS is enabled. For a software issue, you will either need to do a soft or hard reset. For a soft reset, pull out the phone’s battery for 45 seconds and then replace. For a hard reset, go to Settings > Privacy and follow the prompts to reset your phone. 

Now you’ve got a master’s in MMS

We hope this gave you a better understanding of all things MMS. You can now explain to grandma why you can’t just send her fifty photos of yourself via text without a generous amount of lag. Now that you know all about MMS… why not learn more about the other MMS (Mint Mobile Service)? Just tap the button below.