The capability to send and receive text messages via email using the AT&T network relies on a specific addressing format. This address typically consists of the recipient’s ten-digit mobile phone number followed by a domain specific to AT&T’s Short Message Service (SMS) gateway. For example, sending an email to “1234567890@txt.att.net” will deliver a text message to the phone number 123-456-7890.
This functionality offers a means of communication when direct access to a mobile device is limited or when automated systems need to dispatch SMS notifications. It predates the widespread adoption of dedicated SMS APIs and provides an alternative method for interfacing with the AT&T cellular network for text messaging. The service offers practical benefits for sending bulk notifications, receiving automated alerts, or even integrating with legacy systems that primarily rely on email communication.