# iMessage and SMS

TextWork texts people in the messaging app already on their phone. There's nothing to download.

iPhone users get iMessage, with blue bubbles, typing indicators, reactions, and voice memos. Everyone else gets SMS, which works on any phone. TextWork picks the channel for each person based on their phone and on cost.

## When TextWork uses iMessage or SMS

- **iMessage** when the person is on Apple Messages.
- **SMS** when they aren't, and when TextWork texts someone first.
- **SMS fallback** when an iMessage can't be delivered. The conversation continues over SMS from the same contact.

## iMessage vs. SMS

| | iMessage | SMS |
|---|---|---|
| Reaches | People on Apple Messages | Any phone that can text |
| Photos and media | Yes | Yes |
| Typing indicators | Yes | No |
| Reactions | Yes | No |
| Location sharing | Yes | Yes, via link |
| Texting first | On request | Yes |

Join codes, known contacts, and texts from strangers follow the same rules on both.

## iMessage features and limits

**Voice memos.** TextWork transcribes voice memos for the assistant. While the person keeps talking in voice, the assistant can reply with a voice memo.

**Contact card.** TextWork sends a contact card so the number saves on the person's phone. By default that's the TextWork card. A company-branded card is available on request from **Company Settings → Channels**, and may require a higher plan.

**Daily limit.** iMessage includes 200 new people texting in per day. To raise it, or to turn on texting first over iMessage, ask from **Company Settings → Channels**.

## How conversations start

On either channel, a conversation starts when:

- Someone texts your [join code](/docs/starting-conversations).
- A new [SmartRecruiters](/docs/smartrecruiters) applicant or [Zillow](/docs/zillow) lead arrives, and TextWork texts them.
- You forward an [Indeed](/docs/indeed) application email, and TextWork texts the applicant.
- A scheduled message or an action goes out.

The script runs, and the report is saved to that person. See [How conversations begin](/docs/starting-conversations).

## FAQ

### Can a business text over iMessage?

Yes. TextWork texts iPhone users over iMessage, with blue bubbles, typing indicators, and reactions.

### What about Android phones?

Android users get SMS. If an iMessage can't reach someone, the conversation continues over SMS from the same contact.

### Do people need an app?

No. TextWork uses the messaging app already on their phone.