The process of converting an electronic mail message into a Short Message Service (SMS) text message and delivering it to a recipient’s mobile phone on the AT&T network involves specific email-to-SMS gateways. For example, to send a text message to a phone number 555-123-4567 on AT&T, one would typically address an email to 5551234567@txt.att.net. This method allows users to transmit text-based information from an email client to a mobile device without utilizing a dedicated SMS application.
This functionality provides a bridge between traditional email communication and the immediacy of text messaging. Historically, this method was advantageous for users who did not have consistent access to SMS-enabled devices or for automated systems needing to send alerts or notifications to mobile phones. The benefits included convenience and the ability to leverage existing email infrastructure for mobile communication, though limitations existed concerning message length and the potential for delivery delays.