Gmail is widely recognized for its versatility—allowing you to schedule meetings, chat with teammates, and manage tasks. But can it also send text messages?
Yes, and this article outlines methods for doing so.
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Sending Text Messages via Gmail
In the past, Gmail had a straightforward feature under the “Labs” tab in Settings, enabling SMS through Gmail Chat. However, this feature was discontinued in 2014, and the Labs tab has since been renamed to “Advanced.”
Today, you can still send texts using alternative methods, such as:
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- Using a Mobile Service Provider’s SMS Gateway
- Using a Chrome Extension
Method 1: Using a Mobile Service Provider’s SMS Gateway
To use this method, you’ll need the recipient’s 10-digit mobile number (without the country code) and their carrier’s SMS or MMS gateway address.
What Is an SMS Gateway?
An SMS gateway allows email messages to be sent to mobile networks, which then deliver them as texts to recipients. MMS gateways handle multimedia messages like images and audio.
Here are common SMS and MMS gateway addresses for major US carriers:
| Provider | SMS Gateway | MMS Gateway |
|---|---|---|
| AT&T | number@txt.att.net | number@mms.att.net |
| T-Mobile | number@tmomail.net | number@tmomail.net |
| Sprint | number@messaging.sprintpcs.com | number@pm.sprint.com |
| Verizon | number@vtext.com | number@vzwpix.com |
| Boost Mobile | number@myboostmobile.com | number@myboostmobile.com |
| Cricket Wireless | number@mms.cricketwireless.net | number@mms.cricketwireless.net |
| Ting | number@message.ting.com | None available |
| Republic Wireless | number@text.republicwireless.com | None available |
| Straight Talk | number@vtext.com | number@mypixmessages.com |
| U.S. Cellular | number@email.uscc.net | number@mms.uscc.net |
| Google Fi | number@msg.fi.google.com | number@msg.fi.google.com |
Steps to Send a Text:
- Log in to your Gmail account.
- Click Compose to open a new message window.
![Click Compose to open a new message window]()
In the “To” field, enter the recipient’s number followed by their SMS gateway address (e.g., 1234567890@vtext.comfor Verizon).![enter the recipient’s number followed by their SMS gateway address]()
Write your message and click Send.
In the “To” field, enter the recipient’s number followed by their SMS gateway address (e.g., 
Write your message and click Send.💡 Keep your message under 140 characters to ensure compatibility. Messages exceeding this limit may be split into smaller texts or converted into MMS, depending on the carrier.
Limitations:
- It requires knowledge of the recipient’s SMS gateway address.
- Not all carriers support SMS/MMS gateways.
- Formatting and emojis are unavailable.
📚 Also Read: What Does Sent as SMS Via Server Mean
Method 2: Using a Chrome Extension
For a more user-friendly option, consider the Send Your Email to SMS (text) Chrome extension, which allows you to send texts directly from Gmail.
How to Use the Extension:
- Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store.
![Gmail Text Chrome Extension]()
Open Gmail and authorize the tool to access your account.- Click Compose to draft a new email.
![Click Compose to open a new message window]()
- Select the mobile icon to add a recipient’s phone number.
![Select the mobile icon to add a recipient’s phone number]()
Enter the number manually or choose from your Google Contacts.![choose number from your Google Contacts]()
Write your message and click Send.
Open Gmail and authorize the tool to access your account.
Enter the number manually or choose from your Google Contacts.
Write your message and click Send.The extension also allows you to forward emails as text messages:
- Open Gmail and select the email to forward.
- Click on the mobile icon on the top to forward the email as a text message.
![mobile icon on the top to forward the email as a text message]()
Enter the phone number and click Forward as a Text Message.![click Forward as a Text Message]()
Enter the phone number and click Forward as a Text Message.
Replies to these texts will appear in your Gmail inbox.
Limitations:
- Texts can only be sent to US and Canadian numbers.
- The free version allows up to 10 messages per month. For additional messages, a premium plan costs $54.99/month for 1,000 messages.
FAQ’s
Can I send text messages directly through Gmail?
Yes, Gmail allows you to send text messages using alternative methods, such as SMS gateways provided by mobile carriers or Chrome extensions like “Send Your Email to SMS (text).”
What is an SMS gateway, and how does it work?
An SMS gateway converts email messages into text messages that can be delivered to mobile networks. For example, to send a text to a Verizon user, you would send an email to their SMS gateway address, like 1234567890@vtext.com.
Are there any extensions that simplify sending texts from Gmail?
Yes, the “Send Your Email to SMS (text)” Chrome extension simplifies the process. It allows you to send messages by selecting a recipient’s phone number from your contacts or entering it manually.
Do messages sent via Gmail SMS gateway support multimedia (images or videos)?
No, SMS gateways are limited to plain text. For multimedia content, you need to use the recipient’s MMS gateway, which supports images and videos.
Can I use Gmail to send texts internationally?
Using SMS gateways or extensions like “Send Your Email to SMS (text)” typically restricts texts to US and Canadian numbers. For international texting, explore third-party email-to-SMS services.
Conclusion
While Gmail no longer offers a built-in SMS feature, alternative methods like using SMS gateways or the “Send Your Email to SMS (text)” Chrome extension make it possible to send text messages directly from your email. These solutions are straightforward and effective for staying connected, whether you’re sending reminders, updates, or quick notes. Although there are some limitations, such as carrier dependencies and message restrictions, these methods provide a convenient way to bridge email and texting for personal or professional use.
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