SMS API: Everything You Need to Know

The SMS API is the technology that allows business software systems such as CRMs and apps to send and receive SMS messages in a completely automated way, and therefore integrate this strategic communication channel into their workflow.

This enables companies and organizations to manage real-time notifications, OTP authentication, alerts, and various types of communications, which are delivered to the user immediately and securely (also thanks to the very high SMS deliverability, which boasts open rates above 90%).

SMS via API: integration and automation

An SMS API (Application Programming Interface for SMS) is a set of protocols and tools that allows software to send and receive SMS automatically using the infrastructure of a specialized provider, i.e., an SMS Gateway.

SMS via API, often also called SMS Gateway APIs, allow text messaging to be integrated into the workflow of software systems (CRMs, apps, e-commerce platforms, etc.), providing companies and organizations with a direct and reliable communication channel with their users.

Integrating the SMS API service therefore makes it possible to automate operations such as:

• Shipping notifications, alerts, payment confirmations;
• Sending OTP codes for two-factor authentication;
• Sending important messages such as weather alerts, notices, or tax deadlines.

In this sense, SMS is the perfect communication channel for critical or high-engagement communications: SMS, in fact, does not end up in spam. Major operators and analysts agree that SMS has an open rate above 90%.

How does an SMS API work?

Sending an SMS via API takes just a few milliseconds. During this interval, the client (the CRM or another app connected to the APIs) makes an API call to the SMS Gateway address, which is the messaging service provider.

The Gateway then receives the request, processes it, and delivers it to the recipient. The client in turn receives a response that includes the status of the operation (for example, “SMS accepted”) and a unique ID.

If specified in the request, the Gateway will also later send a notification informing that the message has been delivered.

Content and features of SMS via API

An SMS API call includes some essential data, such as the client’s API credentials, the recipient’s phone number, and the message body. However, message sending can be customized based on requirements.

The SMS API call can also include additional options such as:

• Sender ID (the name that will appear to the recipient);
• Date and time of sending, for scheduled messages;
• Request for delivery report;
• Type of SMS (e.g., OTP, transactional, or promotional);
• Message priority;
• Flash SMS option, for messages that are displayed directly on the smartphone screen.

When integrated into a CRM, SMS automation APIs also allow message sending to be linked to certain system states (for example: sending a tracking code when an order status changes from “processing” to “shipped”).