What is the pricing of SMS for Broadcasts
0.015 per segment, minimum $0.50 for each Broadcast send!
SMS messages are billed per segment. Each segment is up to 160 characters OR 70 characters if the message includes an emoji or special character. Longer messages are split into multiple segments, each billed separately. The character limit per segment is determined by the encoding system used for SMS messages. Standard messages use GSM-7 encoding, which supports basic Latin characters and allows up to 160 characters per segment. However, if a message contains non-GSM characters such as emojis, accented letters, or non-Latin scripts, the encoding switches to UCS-2, reducing the character limit to 70 characters per segment. This switch occurs even if only one non-GSM character is present in the message.
What is a segment in SMS
A segment is the character batches that phone carriers use to measure text messages. A text message is sent in 140 byte chunks known as message segments.
When Arketa communicates with carriers to send out SMS messages, we send them one segment at a time (this is industry standard)
How Do Special Characters and Emojis Affect SMS Character Limits and Segmentation?
When sending SMS messages, the type of characters used can significantly impact the character limit per segment and the total number of segments required. This is due to the encoding system used for SMS messages, which determines how characters are processed and billed.
Why a 147-Character SMS May Count as 3 Segments
If a message contains any non-GSM characters, the entire message is encoded in UCS-2, limiting each segment to 70 characters. For example, a 147-character message with special characters would require three segments (70 + 70 + 7). Without special characters, the same message would fit in one segment under GSM-7 encoding.
Tips to Reduce SMS Segments
To minimize the number of segments and reduce costs:
Avoid Non-GSM Characters: Replace accented letters (e.g., “Ė”) with unaccented versions (e.g., “E”).
Use Emojis Sparingly: Limit the use of emojis to keep messages concise and within the 70-character limit per segment.
Review Your Message: Check for any special characters or symbols that might trigger UCS-2 encoding. By following these tips, you can ensure your SMS messages use GSM-7 encoding whenever possible, maximizing the character limit per segment and reducing the total number of segments required.
Why am I being prompted to pay for text messages through Broadcasts
Texting (SMS) can be expensive for several reasons, despite how simple it may seem. There are many costs to handle it at scale, especially when considering carrier fees, infrastructure, compliance, and ensuring reliability.
Carriers' Charges: Companies often pay per SMS sent and received through telecom carriers. These rates can vary depending on the volume of messages, the destination (domestic vs. international), and whether the message is sent via short code or long code (standard phone number).
International Messaging: Sending text messages internationally typically incurs higher costs due to the complexities of routing and agreements between different mobile carriers.
SMS Gateways: Carrier's connect the company’s system to telecom networks and charge fees for using their services.
Opt-in/Opt-out Management: Arketa must ensure that texting campaigns comply with regulations like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) in the U.S., which requires clear opt-in/opt-out mechanisms. Implementing these systems can be costly.
Arketa allows partners to send an unlimited amount of texts through the Broadcast feature and you will see the total price before sending the SMS for up-front pricing!