Careers360 Logo
MMS Full Form

MMS Full Form

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jan 05, 2023 03:52 PM IST

What is the Full Form of MMS?

Multimedia Messaging Service is what MMS stands for. Multimedia messages are supported by MMS, making it an improved version of SMS (Short Message Service). MMS offers a standardized method for sending and receiving multimedia communications, such as rich text, photos, graphics, music files, and video clips. Only devices that support this service can utilize the MMS. These gadgets could be cell phones, smartphones, laptops, portable devices, etc. Both GPRS and 3G networks support MMS. MMS delivered over GPRS is slow and takes a while, however MMS delivered via 3G is quick and even supports streaming video.

The initial version of the multimedia messaging service was created as a captive technology. It makes it simple to exchange audio, video, and image files. MMS's initial and most successful commercial market was China, however between 2010 and 2013, MMS traffic in the US expanded significantly.

Working of MMS technology

SMS technology serves as the foundation for MMS. When an MMS message is sent, the message is encoded which is the first thing that happens. After encoding this message is transmitted to the provider's servers . Stored and forward servers are another name for these servers. The MMS store and forward server also functions as a relay server if the MMS recipient uses a different carrier than the sender. Following that, this relay server uses the internet to forward the server and send the message to the receiver provider's store.

The recipient receives a URL if the recipient's device is unable to receive a multimedia message (universal resource locator). Any browser can be used to access this URL. This is a traditional way to access multimedia information.

It's important to note that MMS never makes use of the internet data that the provider offers. The internet data is only used when the user clicks on the message's link. The majority of MMS services offer email and web-based gateways.

SMS vs MMS

Despite sharing the same basic technology, MMS and SMS have numerous significant distinctions. These include:

  • Space: The maximum character restriction for SMS messages transmitted between smartphones is 160 characters. Messages that are longer than the allotted 160 characters are divided into many segments, each of 160 characters. In order for these communications to arrive in the sequence they were received, the majority of carriers automatically link them together. Users using MMS messages have access to much more characters, giving them virtually infinite capacity to enter messages and send other types of media. The majority of wireless carriers have character limitations, albeit these vary from carrier to carrier. MMS still offers a lot more capacity than SMS.

  • Messages with media: Users of MMS can add media, such as videos and GIFs, to messages. Sending audio snippets is simple, and receivers don't need to click on links to websites to view images. The limitations of SMS, on the other hand, stem from its inability to deliver or receive multimedia content. It is limited to sending and receiving links to content.

  • Cost: Since more data is delivered, MMS messages are slightly more expensive. Images may not always be required, though, as texts can efficiently convey information and compel readers to act (in the case of marketing). For businesses that need to send out urgent messages and get clients to click on certain links, SMS may be the best option. MMS, however, can be the best option for businesses that can afford the added expense and truly want to send photos to consumers in order to get their attention.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What are the challenges faced by MMS technology? Ans:
  • Bulk Messaging.

  • Handset configuration.

  • Size of the message.

  • Sending messages at the same time to all the recipients.

2. Is MMS private?

For instance, normal SMS/MMS text messages received through your mobile service are sent over open networks without encryption hence facilitating the data's simple interception by criminals. The contents of the communications you transmit and receive are visible to your provider, and that data is recorded on their servers.

3. Is there any size limit for MMS?

There is no specific size limit mentioned for an MMS message but telecom operators have set a 300KB limit for MMS 1.2 handsets whereas a limit of 600 KB is set for MMS 1.3 handsets.

4. Are MMS charged?

Yes, they are charged.

5. What happens if I turn off MMS?

Yes, you can. When you turn off MMS your phone will automatically stop downloading MMS.

Get answers from students and experts
Back to top