Short Message Service (SMS)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  1. What is SMS?

    Short Message Service is a text message service that enables short messages of generally no more than 140-160 characters in length to be sent and transmitted from a cell phone. SMS was introduced in the GSM system and later supported by all other digital-based mobile communications systems. Unlike paging, but similar to e-mail, short messages are stored and forwarded at SMS centers, which means you can retrieve your messages later if you are not immediately available to receive them. SMS messages travel to the cell phone over the system's control channel, which is separate and apart from the voice channel.  Some phones may also support what is known as concatenated SMS which allows for larger messages to be sent.  Please check with your phone manual if this is supported.

  2. How do I send a SMS to a friend from WEB SMS?

    To send a Free SMS from the WEB to a friend in Guam or Saipan please enter in the "Number" field the full 10-digit number. For example, 6707880869.

  3. How do I sign up for SMS Service?

    Most mobile phones today are SMS capable. Contact our Customer Care Department at (670) 483-CARE (2273) or visit any of our store locations to determine if your phone is SMS capable.

  4. How do I send an International SMS?

    To send an international SMS use + Country Code instead of 011CountryCode. For Example +63917000000000 would work where as 01163917000000000 would not.

  5. How do I send a local SMS?

    To send a local SMS please use the full 11 digit DOCOMO PACIFIC number. Example: +1670788XXXX (Where X = 0 - 9) This will ensure accurate delivery.

  6. Can I use SMS while traveling abroad?

    Yes. SMS Roaming is available. Keep in mind SMS roaming charges do apply.

  7. What are the GSM SMS rates?

    SMS are charged per text message sent. SMS rates are: $.04 per local text, $.06 per text to Philippines, $.10 for an international text message.

  8. How will I know if an SMS Text Message has arrived?

    Most mobile phones have both audible and visual notifications when an SMS has been received. An envelope icon appearing on your screen signifies that you have received an SMS text.

  9. If my mobile phone is turned off, will I still receive SMS text messages?

    No. Your phone must be turned on and connected to the network to receive SMS texts.

  10. If my phone’s memory is full, will I still receive a SMS text messages?

    Memory capacity varies by make and model of the phone. You will receive a warning that the memory is almost full or already full. When the memory is full, you will have to delete old messages before you can receive new messages.

  11. If I am on a call, will I still receive SMS text messages?

    Yes. You can be on an active voice call and SMS messages will still be received.

  12. Can I SMS to other network providers on-island?

    Yes. You can send and receive SMS texts from other mobile network providers on island.

  13. How long will my SMS texts be stored after I receive them?

    Your SMS text messages will be stored on your mobile phone until you delete them.

  14. Is SMS texting available on prepaid?

    Yes.