Messaging

A message in its most general meaning is an object of communication. It is a vessel which provides information. Yet, it can also be this information. Therefore, its meaning is dependent upon the context in which it is used; the term may apply to both the information and its form.

In communications science, a message is information which is sent from a source to a receiver. In communication between humans, messages can be verbal or nonverbal.

Text messaging, or texting, is the act of typing and sending a brief, electronic message between two or more mobile phones or fixed or portable devices over a phone network. Sending a text message is a form of communication which has, in recent years, evolved into one of the most significant and commonplace methods of staying in touch.

Text messaging is most often used between private mobile phone users, as a substitute for voice calls in situations where voice communication is impossible or undesirable. Some text messages such as SMS can also be used for the remote controlling of appliances.

Electronic mail is a means of sending and receiving messages - internally, nationally, or internationally. Subscribes to e-mail need a terminal, such as personal computer, a telephone line, and a modem, which is device for converting signals to text. Messages appear on the receiver's computer screen. E-mail users can also have access to a mailbox, which they can call from anywhere in the world and retrieve messages. Messages can be printed out and kept for reference. E-mail is relatively low in cost, and does not require a trained operator. It also fast, relatively reliable, and messages can be sent or picked up anywhere in the world, stored in the mailbox until they are retrieved.

The advent of text messaging made possible new forms of interaction that were not possible before. Mobile phone users can maintain communication during situations in which a voice call is impractical, impossible, or unacceptable.