How popular is SMS messaging today in Europe

Introduction to SMS popularity

SMS (Short Message Service) has been a cornerstone of mobile communication for decades. While new messaging apps have emerged, SMS maintains a unique status across Europe for personal and business communication. This article explores how widely SMS is used today, why it remains relevant, and its evolving role in the digital age.

Key statistics on SMS usage in Europe

SMS usage has sustained high relevance despite digital shifts:

• Over 95% of European adults own a mobile phone capable of SMS.
• More than 60 billion SMS messages are sent monthly throughout the EU.
• Over 90% of SMS messages are read within three minutes of receipt.
• Businesses report SMS marketing open rates above 95%, significantly higher than email marketing.
• SMS is vital for authentication, appointment reminders, delivery updates, and critical alerts.

Why SMS remains so popular

• Universal reach: SMS works on all mobile devices, without requiring internet access or special apps.
• High engagement: Due to concise message length, users quickly absorb key information.
• Regulatory trust: Telecom providers follow strict guidelines, building end-user confidence.
• Integration: Easily connected to business tools with a SMS API for automated communication.

Business applications driving SMS growth

European companies rely on SMS for rapid, effective communication. Key use cases include:

• Marketing promotions and SMS campaigns
• Two-factor authentication and OTP messages
• Service notifications, order tracking, and appointment reminders
• Automated birthday wishes with birthday SMS
• WhatsApp newsletters sent from platforms that integrate both channels

The evolution of SMS in a multi-channel world

While WhatsApp, Messenger, and other platforms are prominent, SMS is seen as an essential fallback and trusted primary tool for business purposes. It also acts as a bridge, allowing integration with automation platforms like Zapier (see our integration) and Make.com (see our integration), connecting with email and other systems (email 2 SMS solutions).

Security and reliability

SMS remains the preferred channel for sending OTP codes and critical alerts due to its reliability and widespread access. Virtual SMS numbers (more details) and SIM hosting (explore options) extend SMS capabilities further for enterprises and platforms.

Future trends of SMS usage

SMS continues to adapt:

• 5G and IoT devices amplify automated SMS for alerts and controls.
• Greater API adoption enables seamless integration into business workflows.
• Personalization, such as birthday and local offers, increases effectiveness.
• SMS coexists and complements popular chat apps, boosting overall messaging reach.

How Smstools supports SMS for European businesses

With over 20 years of experience, Smstools delivers reliable, scalable SMS solutions: SMS software, bulk SMS (send to thousands easily), WhatsApp marketing (discover our tools), and virtual numbers for advanced use.

Ready to harness the ongoing power of SMS? Start with a REGISTER or explore our case studies.

Frequently asked questions about SMS popularity

• Is SMS still widely used in Europe?
  Yes—SMS is universally supported and used by consumers and businesses alike.
• Why do businesses still prefer SMS?
  Fast delivery, high read rates, and universal device compatibility make SMS highly effective.
• How is SMS used for security?
  Its reliability makes it ideal for two-factor authentication and OTPs.
• Can SMS be integrated with modern marketing and automation tools?
  Absolutely. APIs and integrations allow seamless connection to CRMs, marketing platforms, and more.
• Does the rise of messaging apps impact SMS?
  SMS remains a trusted channel, especially for time-sensitive and official messages, and works alongside chat apps.

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