Definition: The "Short Message Service" is a feature available in most modern digital phones, that lets users receive and send short text messages (from 150 to 160 characters) to other cell phones, usually limited to phones activated on the same network. In order to send and receive SMS text messages, phone users usually have to pay a monthly fee to their service provider or a small fee for each text message. Some companies even offer SMS free of charge. Text Messages can also be sent from a cellular service provider's web page or by visiting some web sites that offer to send text messages free of charge.
On Nokia phones, users can receive new ringing tones or replacement background logos in an SMS text message after placing an order on a specialized web site.

Also Known As: Short Message Service, Text Messages, Text Messaging, Mobile Text Messages, Texting, g-mail