Internet messaging overtakes SMS for the first time; telcos to loose $30bn

A new report from tech group Informa has confirmed that messages sent through mobile internet apps like Whatsapp, BBM, Apple iMessage,etc. outnumbered the traditional SMS for the first time last year.

Whatsapp

BBM

Furthermore, it is expected that the number of messages sent  via internet apps will double SMS next year. The research predicts users of smartphones will send 41 billion internet based messages this year, and 50 billion next year compared to 21 billion text messages that is predicted for 2014.

SMS has no hope on the horizon as Blackberry has revealed plans to extend its Blackberry Messenger (BBM) to Android and iOS users soon.

The internet based messaging apps allows users to share texts, photos, videos, and group messages. Less cost, better service, I think it is obvious that Short Message Service (SMS) has lost the battle as it can only offer text messages.

Telecommunications companies have reported low profits from SMS revenue, and it is expected that internet messaging will cost the telcos about $30bn.

Posted in Gadgets, internet