Microsoft adds SMS messaging feature to Teams Chat

Microsoft Teams Unveils SMS Messaging Capabilities

Microsoft Teams has cemented its position as a leading collaboration tool with the introduction of SMS messaging, enabling users to connect seamlessly with individuals outside their organization. This enhancement marks a significant upgrade aimed at improving communication efficiency and fostering broader connectivity.

The announcement, made in June 2024, outlined Microsoft’s intention to incorporate the ability to send and receive SMS messages directly within the Teams app, available on both desktop and mobile platforms. Users of Microsoft Teams can now effortlessly exchange SMS text messages using Teams Chat.

SMS Functionality Overview

According to a Microsoft Learn blog post, this SMS feature is part of the Teams Calling Plans, currently accessible in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. However, messages sent outside of these designated regions may be blocked by Teams, leading to potential delivery failures or lack of confirmation.

Understanding SMS Messaging Classification

All SMS interactions through Microsoft Teams are classified as:

Business Messaging
Non-Consumer Messaging
Application-to-Person (A2P) Messaging

This classification is crucial as it differentiates Teams’ SMS functionality from traditional consumer SMS messaging. Recognizing that Teams SMS falls into the A2P category ensures compliance with industry regulations, which often impose strict guidelines on SMS communications between businesses and their clients.

10DLC Registration Requirement

For organizations wishing to utilize SMS messaging within Teams, it is mandatory to register with the 10DLC (10 Digit Long Code) network. This registration helps mitigate the risk of messages being marked as spam. Businesses must complete their registration with The Campaign Registry (TCR) prior to enabling the SMS feature within the Microsoft Teams Calling Plan.

This registration process involves two key components: identifying the Brand (the organization itself) and detailing the Campaign (the purpose of the SMS communications).

SMS Capabilities Across Teams Calling Plans

Teams Calling Plan	Supports SMS Capability	Included SMS (Threshold Before Overage Charges)
PAYG (Pay-as-you-go)	Yes	0
Domestic 120	Yes	100
Domestic	Yes	200
Domestic + International	Yes	200
Teams Phone + Calling Plan Bundle	Yes	Phone + Domestic = 200 (if purchased as Calling Plan bundle) / Phone + PAYG = 0 (if purchased as PAYG bundle)

Implications of Enhanced SMS Features

With the phased discontinuation of Skype effective May 2024, Microsoft’s move to integrate SMS functionality within Teams is strategic, enhancing user experience and encouraging a transition for Skype users to Teams. The addition of SMS messaging is poised to elevate collaboration and streamline processes in organizations.

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