Digital marketers need to be aware of all the tools they have at their disposal to reach their audiences. Two of the most effective tools out there are SMS Notifications and Push Notifications.
 

What are SMS Notifications?

 
SMS Notifications are Notifications that are sent when you receive a text message. Basically, if you've ever seen your phone light up with a preview of a text message you just got, that's an SMS notification.
 
SMS stands for "Short Message Service." SMS Notifications are sent the same way as any other text message. Usually, they're limited to 160 characters.
 
While SMS can be used as a marketing tool, SMS Notifications can be used for time-sensitive and safety purposes also.
 

Why Use SMS Notifications?

 
Many businesses and organizations choose SMS Notifications because they work on any mobile device without the need to download an app or install software. Nearly all cell phones can receive SMS, making it a universal communication tool.
 
Think about this: if your friend needed to get important information to you quickly, would you prefer they send a text, call, or email? Like most consumers, you'd likely choose a text for its speed and convenience.
 

When to Use SMS Notifications  

 
SMS Notifications are ideal for various purposes, including sending emergency alerts, announcing new features, and promoting products or services. Here are some common use cases:
 
- Promote upcoming events
- Send internal updates to employees
- Boost sales with promotional and cart abandonment messages
- Remind patients of upcoming appointments
- Fundraise or recruit volunteers for nonprofit initiatives
- Notify customers of reservation confirmations
   

What Are Push Notifications?

 
Push Notifications are pop-up messages that appear on a mobile device, often confused with SMS Notifications. These alerts can show up while the user is active on their phone or on the lock screen if the device is idle.
 
The key difference is that Push Notifications originate from an app or website, not from a text message.  
 
The character limit for Push Notifications varies by device, but they typically range from 100 to 200 characters in length.
 

Why Use Push Notifications?  

 
The main advantage of Push Notifications is that users don't need to be in a specific app or on a website to receive them. Publishers can send these alerts anytime, and many users opt into Push Notifications when they install an app.
 

When to Use Push Notifications?

 
Push Notifications serve various purposes: encouraging users to take action, informing them about updates, and promoting special offers. The key reason to use them is to keep your brand top of mind for users.
 
You can also use Push Notifications to prompt customers to revisit your site or app for new content, product launches, or to restock items.
 

4 Key Differences Between Push Notifications and SMS Notifications  

 
Push Notifications and SMS Notifications serve similar functions, but they differ significantly in how they are sent and received. Below are 4 key distinctions to consider:
 

1. SMS Notifications Don't Require Apps or Websites  

 
Push Notifications are sent through apps or websites, making them ideal if your business has either. In contrast, SMS Notifications are sent directly via the phone's native messaging app, making them a better choice if you don't have an app or website.
 

2. Push Notifications Require Just One Tap  

 
Push Notifications simplify user engagement by allowing customers to tap the notification to go straight to your app or landing page.
 

3. Customers Can Reply to Two-way SMS  

 
While Push Notifications are great for one-way communication, STwo-way SMS allow customers to respond, making them ideal for customer service or interactive messaging. Welcome to contact us! Our main services include Verification SMS, Notification SMS, Marketing SMS, Two-way SMS. We are ready to serve you anytime.
 

4. SMS Notifications Can Be Triggered by Other Software  

 
SMS Notifications can be automated to trigger based on events from other software. For example, you can send SMS Notifications through ITNIO TECH to new contacts in Constant Contact or to new Shopify customers.
 

Try ITNIO TECH SMS Notification Service

 
It's easy to add SMS Notifications to your brand. Our platform was designed from the ground up to be as simple to use as possible.
 
Contact us to see how texts can benefit your business. With our SMS API, you can plug your website or app directly into our platform.