API stands for Application Programming Interface. An API to send SMS can be well-defined as a software interface that enables a code to send short messages via an SMS Gateway. Basically, an API is used to facilitate the interaction between two different applications by using any means of communication.

For example, when one uses an application on the mobile phone, the application connects to the internet and sends data to a server. The server then retrieves that data, interprets it, performs the necessary actions and sends it back to the phone. The application then interprets that data and presents you with the information you wanted in a reliable way. This is essentially what an API is.

The infrastructure for SMS communications and the internet are largely divided. SMS Gateway APIs are often used to bridge the gap between telecommunications carrier networks and the internet. They are used to enable web applications to be able to easily send and receive text messages through data written for standard web frameworks.

How do bulk SMS APIs work?

SMS APIs allow one to send customised text messages in huge volumes with variable formats – such as in different languages or characters – over a global range of networks.

An SMS API platform is like a huge computer connected to hundreds of global mobile networks on one end, while your application is on the other receiving end. The advantage is that your application does not need to be individually connected to every mobile network that you want to send your messages to. All one has to do is to be connected with their preferred SMS API platform/provider.

Bulk SMS gateway API service allows companies to reach thousands of clients within a short period of time. No need to worry about which mobile network companies your contacts are on, the SMS API provider handles all of this on their platform.

Sending SMS APIs is fast, simple and consistent as they are made in such a way that it is easy to operate and fit with any system. You can schedule your messages to be sent at a specified time and/or date. This makes it convenient for reminder messages, time-sensitive promotional messages and more!

How are SMS APIs used to send transactional SMS?

For businesses, customers are the most important asset, and staying close to them is a key to success. Therefore, taking advantage of the mass use of mobile devices facilitates the work of SMS APIs in connecting with customers right away. The automation of communication efforts can significantly improve the way businesses interact with their customers.

Transactional SMS refers to text messages sent by a business/organisation to their clients providing vital information about their product or services. If you are looking to grow best Transactional Route from a direct SMS provider, you require a reliable provider.

The aim of sending automated transactional messages is to reduce the heap of human resources while still delivering a higher customer service level. Sending transactional bulk SMS requires one to make use of a web SMS platform or by integrating the SMS within your existing software using an API key.

Some examples of transactional SMS automated with the help of SMS API

All transactional messages should be sent on an automated system. Their subjects range from data verification through time to messages triggered by order cancellations.

1. Multi-factor authentication

Bulk SMS API is used for two-factor authentication (2FA) where a user uses two different devices (or methods) to confirm a critical decision, transaction or sensitive data. The verification might come in the form of a link or PIN code. Thanks to SMS Gateway API, the messages are fast, convenient and direct; making them perfect for the task. This type of process is common in banking, financial services, public, and health sectors. Perpetrators would always want to access your personal information. If you're struggling with inactive or fake accounts, think about implementing activation via SMS. It's an extra security step that will discourage false registrations by asking them for verification on the owner’s phone.

2. Order notifications

Automated notifications are considered one of the most important aspects of customer service. They keep customers informed on the progress of their purchase, making them less stressed in cases of delays or other difficulties. The automated SMS notification can accompany your customers from the beginning of the process until the end. Companies can send SMS API to inform about: order placement confirmation, order completion, shipping, delivery estimated time, pickup confirmation, and more. Therefore, it’s extremely useful for all online businesses.

3. Triggered messages

SMS API PHP allows customization of bulk SMS API to set custom triggers when sending messages. Integration with a calendar enables one to send automated reminders. They are based on templates that the system automatically fills with each customer's data. This feature becomes very resourceful for scheduled businesses such as beauty salons, car repair shops, etc. SMS reminders are a great way of increasing the number of customers that make the effort of showing up at the designated date. It’s profitable to make sure that they don’t forget about an appointment.

4. Real-time alerts

For alerts to be effective, you need a quick solution. SMS Gateway APIs allow messages to be sent immediately, with most customers engaging within the first moments of delivery. Sending quick SMS messages is an efficient way of businesses to inform their customers about exclusive changes. It is the exclusivity of this channel that makes it even more attractive and a real game-changer when it comes to communication and marketing.

Back to Blog