SMS API FAQ

If we can't answer your questions below, please call us!

• How can replies be received through the API?
• How can replies be matched to the sent message?
• How will the sending number be displayed?
• How can multiple messages be sent through the API?
• What is the character limit on an SMS message?
• How does the API communicate with the SMS gateways?
• Can messages be encrypted?
• How does delivery tracking work?
• Can line breaks be added to SMS messages?
• Is sample code provided?

How are replies received through the API?

We have 2 methods for receiving text message replies back to our API:

1. Polling the SMS gateway
Replies are stored on the SMS gateway until a request from the API polls for the messages. Your messages can then be downloaded to the API and handled by the application.

2. Pushing messages 
The alternative is your messages can be pushed to your application through HTTP GET variables as soon as they're received by the SMS gateway.

How are replies matched to the sent SMS message?

SMS sent via MessageMedia's APIs can be tagged with an internal message ID. This ID is then attached to any corresponding replies, allowing your system to match the reply to the original message.

How is the sending number displayed?

Messages sent through the API will appear to come from a random number. This range of numbers is used as part of the process of matching replies to the relevant message.

This will mean a recipient may see a different sending number for messages received from the API. However, recipients just need to reply to the message and their reply will be delivered back to the sender.

For an inbound SMS service (receiving messages back from the handset) a dedicated number can be allocated to your account.

Can SMS be sent to multiple numbers through an API?

Yes, all MessageMedia APIs can send SMS to multiple numbers, you just add the cell numbers and messages to the API's internal message batch. Your messages can then be sent out to all the recipients in one batch.

Is there a character limit on a text message?

Yes. Text messages are limited to a maximum of 160 characters. That said, MessageMedia's APIs can split messages over 160 characters into multiple messages. Each SMS includes a reference that the message is continued, and the messages are sent to recipients at 30 second intervals.

How do your APIs communicate with the SMS gateways?

Each API communicates with our SMS gateway through HTTP on Port 80 (or port 443 for secure mode). Proxy servers and authentication can also be accommodated. If your firewall requires that specific addresses be permitted access, please let us know.

Can text messages be encrypted?

Yes. We have a secure mode in our APIs that allows SMS to be sent using HTTPS over port 443.

How exactly does delivery tracking technology work?

MessageMedia SMS delivery tracking can be used to record the time and date that text messages are received on a cell phone. Delivery reports are sent to the API in the same manner as replies, but with no message text. Accordingly, the status of the delivery report will be 1 of 3 options: P for pending, D for delivered or F for failed. Text messages will be marked as Pending until it is marked as delivered or failed.

Can I add line breaks to SMS messages?

Yes - new lines can be created using your application's standard newline character, for example: \r\n.

Do you provide sample code?

Yes - all APIs come with sample code in the documentation or API package. Additional code examples in Visual C++, VB.NET and ASP are available for the COM API.