You can do more with texting (or SMS) than send brief messages to friends. If you pay for a text messaging plan or texting is included in your plan, you may not need the mobile web, which consists of browser-based internet services that are accessed from mobile devices such as smartphones, and affects data usage. Instead, use text messaging.

Texting from a mobile phone is part of a cellular call system’s Short Message Service (SMS). Sending a text doesn’t use data allowance, but unless SMS is included in a monthly plan, there may be a small fee for each text.

Update Your Facebook Status by Text

If you’re part of the ​social-networking craze and Facebook is in your repertoire, don’t be tethered to your computer to update your status for friends and colleagues. Rather than access Facebook in a browser to post an update, post a status update by text. Sign up for the free Facebook texts service, and you’re set.

  • Don’t need an internet connection to update Facebook status.

  • Must set up Facebook texts and add a mobile phone number.

Mobile Microblogging on Twitter

It’s hard to talk about the internet without Twitter popping up on the radar. The site, which started as a free microblogging service for computer users, has expanded into text messaging, so users can send and receive tweets by SMS. Sign up with Twitter for the service, then text your tweets.

  • Add a mobile number to access more security features.

  • When multiple Twitter accounts are linked to the same phone number, can’t choose which account can edit notification settings.

Enter Sweepstakes

Text messaging is one of the most popular ways to enter sweepstakes. You don’t have to be on a computer or use a smartphone’s mobile web browser to enter sweepstakes. If you’re out and about and a contest strikes your fancy, text to enter. Some contests let you know within seconds if you’ve won.

  • It’s so easy!

  • Don’t know if contests are legitimate or secure.

Email a Mobile Phone

Even if neither you nor the person you’re contacting has email configured on your mobile phone, your mobile phone has an email address that begins with the phone number. Text to it from your phone just like you would send an email from your computer. You can also forward emails to the address.

  • Fast and easy way to send a quick email.

  • Must know which carrier the text-email recipient uses.

An email sent in a text message is split into several short texts.

Shop for a Mortgage

Many web services offer alerts through SMS messages. If you’re looking for favorable mortgage rates, sign up for daily text updates from Quicken Loans. You’ll receive a text message every day with current mortgage rates, promotions, and sweepstakes.

  • Potentially save with lower rates and fees.

  • It may be harder to get help.

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