iMessage and Text Messages are both used to communicate or transmit information, which is an alternative form of a voice call.
There are various other similar applications like WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram which are also a form of transmitting information but they are operated with the help of the internet.
iMessage vs Text Message
The difference between iMessage and Text Message is that they differ in their operating devices. The text message has been in use for a long time, which is available on all mobile phones. But iMessage is only available in iPhone, iPod, and related devices that are owned by Apple.
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iMessages are only available on iPad, iPhones, and such only on those devices certain features are needed for the iMessage application. iMessage operates on an end-to-end encryption system.
If one has Macbook or iPhone or iPad they can access iMessage online itself. It is called an instant messaging service.
Text message application is a built-in application available on all mobile phones by default. Text messages do not need an internet connection for their management.
A text message is also called an SMS which is Short Message Service. It includes alphanumeric contents. Whereas an MMS is also a text message service that includes multimedia messages too.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | iMessage | Text Message |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | iMessage is an instant messaging service available on Apple devices. | A text message is available on all android phones and basic model mobile phones. |
| Encryption type | iMessage is AES-128 end-to-end encrypted on iPad and iPhone. | Not end-to-end encrypted. |
| The medium used for messages | Internet or Wifi is a must for iMessage. | Mobile cellular data is enough in the case of text messages. |
| Capacity or maximum limit of sharing the message | There is no limit required for sharing in iMessage. | There is a specified limit for sharing messages above which it is converted from SMS to MMS. |
| Charges | iMessage is used in the medium of the internet so there are no further charges. | It differs according to the recharge plan opted. |
What is iMessage?
iMessage was introduced in 2011, to send and receive messages between Apple users. One can send texts, photos, videos, and other messages from one iPhone or iPad to another iPhone or iPad user.
iMessage can be used only if we have any Apple devices with us. iMessages are encrypted end-to-end, which is very safer and more secure.
iMessages use the internet or wifi to transfer messages. They appear in blue background bubbles. iMessages cannot be sent to an android user. One main advantage of using iMessage is that it is end-to-end encrypted.
It means that the message is only between the sender and the receiver, even Apple cannot read those messages, which is very much secured.
iMessage has similar features like Whatsapp and Facebook.
When a message is being typed, it shows three dots, while the message is sent it shows delivered, and when it is seen, delivered changes to read, which is not present in the text message app.
iMessage enables the users to send emoji videos, stickers and keeps updating the app with its advancements. Even documents, locations, voice recordings, GIFs can be shared using the iMessage app.
It also enables the creation of a group conversation through the iMessage app.
What is Text Message?
Text Message was introduced in 1970. It is regarded as the easiest way of communication between people and various organizations such as banks, government institutions for notifications, and other means.
A text message is available with both iPhone users and Android users, making it common.
There are a few advantages and disadvantages concerning the text message app. Disadvantages would be it is not encrypted, which sounds a little unsafe or unsecured.
Text messages are either in alphanumeric formats or photos. There is a certain limit in the usage of characters or texts, above which SMS gets converted to MMS, and charges would change accordingly.
The advantage of the text message application is that it doesn’t require internet or wifi. Messages can be sent using cellular data and charges would be inquired for that.
Text messages are easily sent between an android user and an iPhone user which makes it quite convenient.
A text message is limited to only 160 characters per message which is a little restricted but it is used worldwide across the globe. Every business and government institution for regular notifications and alerts, which is a good thing.
Main Differences Between iMessage and Text Message
- iMessage is only for Apple users, whereas Text Message is available for both Apple as well as Android users.
- iMessage doesn’t have any limits, but text message has limited characters per word. iMessage has many features such as document sharing, videos, and voice record sharing, and those features are not available for text message users.
- iMessage is end-to-end encrypted which appears to be much secured, whereas Text Message is not encrypted.
- iMessage requires an internet or wifi connection to send or receive messages, whereas Text Messages can be sent using regular cellular data with proper tower signals which are its requirement.
- iMessage was introduced in 2011, whereas a text message was introduced in 1970. Text Message has its developments from SMS (Short Message Service) to MMS (Multimedia Message Service) and EMS (Enhanced Message Service).
- https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4302-3588-0_12
- https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4302-6038-7_11
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
