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Alternative to short code

Short codes (also known as short numbers) are special telephone numbers, that can be used to receive incoming text messages (SMS messages). Short codes are easier to remember and are used for value-added services such as television program voting. Short code is normally linked to some back-end applications, such that when a customer text in with the word “info” or “stop”, more information will be text back to the customer or add the customer’s phone number to an opt-out list.

According to wikipedia, short codes can be leased at the rate of $1000 a month for a selected code or $500 for a random code. In addition to cost, short code are usually shared by a number of brands. In order to identify a particular brand or company, service providers may charge for these “keywords” or “service identifiers”. For example, an advertisement may state: text Morning News to 23456 to get daily news. The service identifier “morning news” is reserved for a particular news organization.

The good news is that with Voicent text message solution, you do not need short code. You simply use the the mobile number, the long code, that is associated with your mobile account. The reason Voicent can do that is that Voicent software uses your SIM card (with a SMS modem) directly, which is the same way your cell phone uses your text message service. Anyone can text your cell phone, ie. the device that contains your SIM card, without going through a short code.

Since you own the number, you do not need to get a service identifier either.

Best of all, you pay nothing more except your regular cell phone bill.

So how do you have your prospects opt-in to your newsletter?

Simply ask them to text [the number number] with [any keyword you choose].

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