SMS vs. BBM — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on January 1, 2024
SMS is a standard messaging system on mobile networks, while BBM is BlackBerry's proprietary instant messaging app.
Difference Between SMS and BBM
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
SMS, which stands for Short Message Service, is a globally accepted messaging protocol used by mobile networks. It enables users to send and receive short text messages using their mobile numbers. On the contrary, BBM, standing for BlackBerry Messenger, is an instant messaging application developed specifically for BlackBerry devices, though it was later made available for other platforms.
SMS doesn't require internet access, relying solely on cellular networks to transmit messages. BBM, on the other hand, operates over the internet, necessitating either mobile data or Wi-Fi connectivity. This means that while SMS is universally available on cell phones, BBM requires an app and internet connection.
A notable difference between SMS and BBM is the feature set. SMS primarily offers text messaging, though MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) extends this to include multimedia. BBM, being an app, provides features like voice and video calls, group chats, and even status updates, echoing more of a social platform.
In terms of security, BBM was touted for its end-to-end encryption, making it a choice for business and professional communications. SMS, while secure in its own right, doesn't inherently offer the same level of encryption as BBM.
The cost structure also varies. SMS might incur charges based on the carrier and the user's plan, especially for international messages. BBM messages, being internet-based, would pull from the user's data allowance but wouldn't typically incur additional charges beyond that.
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Comparison Chart
Base Technology
Cellular network protocol
Instant messaging app
Internet Requirement
No
Yes
Features
Text messaging (with MMS for multimedia)
Text, voice, video, group chats, status updates
Security
Standard cellular security
End-to-end encryption
Cost
Varies by carrier, possible charges per message
Uses data, typically no additional charges
Compare with Definitions
SMS
SMS messages are limited in length, often to 160 characters.
I had to shorten my SMS to fit the character limit.
BBM
BBM is BlackBerry's proprietary messaging application.
I used to chat with my friends on BBM during college.
SMS
SMS operates over cellular networks, not the internet.
Even without Wi-Fi, I can still send an SMS.
BBM
BBM stands for BlackBerry Messenger.
BBM was known for its unique PIN system.
SMS
SMS is a text messaging protocol for mobile devices.
I received an SMS from my bank about a transaction.
BBM
BBM is known for its end-to-end encryption and security.
Many professionals trusted BBM for confidential chats.
SMS
SMS stands for Short Message Service.
The SMS alert informed me of a weather update.
BBM
BBM offers features beyond text, like voice and video calls.
We had a group video call on BBM last night.
SMS
SMS is available on virtually all mobile phones.
My grandmother uses SMS on her basic phone.
BBM
Originally for BlackBerry devices, BBM expanded to other platforms.
Though I switched phones, I could still access BBM.
Common Curiosities
What does SMS stand for?
SMS stands for Short Message Service.
Is SMS the same as texting?
Yes, SMS is the standard protocol for sending text messages on mobile devices.
What is BBM?
BBM, or BlackBerry Messenger, is an instant messaging app originally designed for BlackBerry devices.
Can I send pictures through SMS?
Yes, but that's typically done through MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), an extension of SMS.
How is BBM different from SMS in terms of features?
While SMS mainly offers text messaging, BBM provides text, voice, video, group chats, and status updates.
Does SMS require internet access?
No, SMS operates over cellular networks without needing the internet.
Is BBM more secure than SMS?
BBM is known for its end-to-end encryption, making it notably secure, especially for professional communications.
Did BBM have character limits like SMS?
No, BBM didn't have the same stringent character limits as SMS.
Were there any unique features in BBM?
Yes, BBM had unique PINs for each user, allowing more privacy than sharing phone numbers.
Is BBM available only on BlackBerry phones?
Initially, yes, but BBM was later expanded to other platforms like Android and iOS.
Why was BBM popular among businesses?
Due to its end-to-end encryption and security features, BBM was a preferred choice for many professionals.
Do I need to download BBM as an app to use it?
Yes, BBM operates as an app, so it needs to be downloaded and installed on compatible devices.
Can I use SMS on smartphones and basic phones alike?
Yes, SMS is universally available on both basic mobile phones and smartphones.
Is SMS limited in terms of character count?
Typically, an SMS is limited to 160 characters, though this can vary.
How are charges determined for SMS and BBM?
SMS charges are often based on carrier rates, while BBM, being internet-based, uses data without additional charges.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
